Auckland’s innovative and stunning architecture and landscape design has been recognised at the World Architecture Festival (WAF) held in Berlin.
Kopupaka Reserve in Westgate has been awarded Landscape of the Year Winner 2016. Designed by Isthmus Group, Kopupaka Reserve is situated in the emerging Westgate metropolitan centre in the Henderson-Massey Local Board area.
The linear reserve follows a riparian corridor and integrates community amenities with engineering and ecology. Interspaced with stormwater ponds and wetland areas, the reserve’s design serves as open space for recreation and helps to manage stormwater.
Design inspired by Māori baskets
Isthmus engaged extensively with local iwi for the design based on hīnaki, or Māori eel-gathering baskets, to conceal the major pond outlet structures. The striking, sculpted structures integrate the stormwater ponds with the open space and will provide spaces for a skate park, cultural garden (showcasing Māori weaving plants) and play space, contributing to an interesting and varied open space experience.
The pond outlet structures are also equipped with fish ladders to ensure that the ecological vitality of the catchment is maintained.
Auckland recognised on the the world stage
“It’s fantastic that Auckland’s design is being recognised in an international arena," says John Dunshea, General Manager Development Project Office (DPO) at Auckland Council.
"We are doing it right and the world is taking notice. We are making a difference in our attitude to buildings, places and spaces that make our city stand out.”
“We thought the designs that Isthmus presented to our board were stunning. This win confirms that. Westgate and the surrounding area is growing fast, so it’s wonderful to see great design as part of that,” says Henderson-Massey Local Board member Vanessa Neeson.
More development to come
Kopupaka Reserve is being constructed in a staged approach, with some parcels of land yet to be purchased and developed. Two of the key parts of the network (pond two and three) have been constructed and it is these areas that have received awards.
The project is a collaboration between Auckland Council’s Project Development Office (DPO), Healthy Waters Department (stormwater), Parks, Sport and Recreation, Henderson-Massey Local Board and Isthmus Group.
