Viaduct Basin Public Open Spaces

Auckland's sea/water boundary is constantly modified by the action of wind, waves and tide.  Constant too has been the unnatural intervention of reclamation, generally for commercial (port) reasons.  It was this constantly shifting relationship between land and sea that was the basis for the Viaduct Basin Public Open Spaces project.

The primary components of the project are Waitemata Plaza, The Promenade and Market Square.  A new seawall was built to edge the promenade,  generally set some 10 metres inland from its previous location. The Wall was designed 1.0m lower than the ground adjacent, thus forming "The Promenade," a simple move that broke a century old habit of seawall construction at this level.

The Promenade modifies and articulates the edge, the critical juncture of land and water. The upper level, slightly removed, presents continuous vantage points from which to view the waterfront.  The lower level allows for a more protected and intimate connection with the sea and recreates a sense of the natural waterfront. Banks of steps, walls and ramps are established as necessary between each plinth. 

A trail of maritime plaques mounted on the plinths along the lower promenade gives an added narrative to the pedestrian experience.

Project Sheet

• Project Sheet