It’s exciting to see Mt Albert town centre’s upgrade completed. It enhances the unique character of one of Auckland's oldest suburbs.
Mt Albert people have been asking for an upgrade for decades which the Albert-Eden Local Board prioritised in 2010. Feedback from 1500 people in 2017 has shaped its final design.
While inevitable, the disruption due to construction has been difficult for many local businesses.
“We have worked with the Mt Albert Business Association, Mt Albert Residents Association and Auckland Transport during the construction phase to reduce the effects of disruption. Now we look forward to long-term benefits for locals and business owners,” says Albert-Eden Local Board Chair Peter Haynes.
Over the next 30 years, Mt Albert will change significantly.
The upgrade offers pedestrians and shoppers a better experience and aims to attract more people to the town centre.
This is especially important as local businesses also face the prospect of competition from an enlarged St Lukes Mall. Currently, over 2100 people access public transport every day at Mt Albert, aside from the thousands of people using roads through the Centre.
The $6.5 million upgrade project, funded by the local board and delivered by Auckland Council and Auckland Transport, includes more trees, gardens, wider footpaths, better lighting, new street furniture, drinking fountains and cycle lanes.
Mt Albert town centre will be officially opened at 11.30am on 19 May 2018. The opening will include a blessing and karakia, along with brief speeches from the local board members and Mayor.
You can then take a walk down the road and enjoy the many activities planned by the Mt Albert Business Association in the town centre from 12.30pm-3pm.
Event details: Rediscover Mt Albert
When: Saturday, 19 May from 11.30am to 12.30pm
Where: 915 New North Road, Mt Albert
Car park next to Mt Albert Train Station
Explore everything local businesses have to offer around New North Road until 3pm.
Activities include: Food tasting, colouring competition, raffle, bouncy castle, balloons, sausage sizzle, face painting, dreamcatcher workshop and art exhibition.
