Grow sustainably, together - The Future Communities of Uptown

  October 31, 2022

Grow sustainably, together
The Future Communities of Uptown

Uptown is growing and changing, with the opening of the Maungawhau Station and conversion of ex-industrial sites to high density apartments. The Uptown Business Association has been engaging the community and has developed a vision for the entire precinct.


As part of an ongoing dialogue Uptown is sponsoring events to advocate for a “a thriving, accessible, neighbourhood that embraces its heritage and diverse solutions for its community”.


Take a look at the panel discussion from our special event held at The Mind Lab recently.


Our expert speakers explore how the neighbourhood can be a blueprint for low-carbon, sustainable, high-quality living in the future - all it takes will be making the right choices today for the homes of our tamariki.

The panel of speakers: 

 

Matthew Prasad - Principal Urban Designer, The Urban Advisory: Matt's firm Holistic Urban Environments recently joined forces with The Urban Advisory, bringing Matt's experience in creating beautiful, innovative Human Environments. Matt has sought-after expertise in bridging the divide between the realities of urban development, complex institutional needs, architectural flair, and best practice urban design and community building.


Kent Lundberg - Technical Director, MRCagney: One of the leading walking and cycling experts in Auckland, Kent has over twenty years' experience working in urban planning, landscape architecture, and real estate services. Kent has particular expertise in liveable street design, public transport integration, cycleway planning and design and has worked on several town centre redevelopment projects.

Deborah Levy - Head of Property Department, University of Auckland: Deborah has significant experience working in property and research, has been head of the University's property department since 2008 and is also Associate Dean of External Enagement. Deborah is leading Town Centre research at the University and is an expert in property decision making.


Kamelia Haydon - Development Manager, Kāinga Ora: Kamelia is an urban designer with fifteen years’ experience in the industry and qualifications in architecture and urban design. Her project experience is based predominantly in Auckland and Melbourne and it includes large-scale public projects delivered with in partnership with international practices such as Auckland’s City Rail Link and Arts Centre Melbourne. Having worked on the regeneration of Glen Innes, Mt Roskill and Mangere she has learnt that community, local understanding and forward planning are essential to placemaking. 

Read our research and vision for Uptown here
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