For most, it was their first time inside the station, and it was special to see so many people exploring the new spaces, taking in the artwork and getting a feel for what this new connection will mean for our neighbourhood.

Precinct Leader Brent Kennedy said “For the last seven or so years we've watched as the CRL has been constructed. We’ve advocated for the best interests of Uptown businesses and residents. It's been a long wait with considerable disruption along the way. So there was a genuine sense of joy for many as the public finally got access to see the station and its surroundings.”

“You don’t walk in and feel like it’s this sterile urban environment; you’ve got the beautiful art as soon as you walk in,” said one attendee.

Another visitor highlighted the station’s centrepiece artwork Parawhenuamea by Tessa Harris, describing the completed artwork as “fantastic” and a wonderful connection to Auckland and Aotearoa.

For many, it was a day where years of waiting for the City Rail Link finally felt real. Thousands flowed out from the station into the wider precinct, with a sweepstakes offering the chance to win a one-of-a-kind platinum HOP card encouraging visitors to explore local businesses. Many businesses reported one of their busiest days.

The Uptown Business Association helped bring the celebration to life with music, performances, cultural experiences, activations and giveaways throughout the station and surrounding streets. From school groups and jazz quartets to a set from DJ Frank Booker, there was plenty happening to keep people around and encourage them to explore the wider precinct.

It was a great glimpse of what the station could bring to Uptown, there was a real sense of pride. After years of watching the station take shape, it was special to finally see it in use.

Maungawhau Station is going to make Uptown one of the most connected places in Auckland, creating a new gateway into our neighbourhood.

This is just the beginning of a new chapter for the precinct. 

“We're excited for when the station will be up and running on September 13.” Says Brent Kennedy