Auckland Council is 15 years old this month and to celebrate we’ve put together a selection of key local achievements, projects and upgrades that have grown and benefited communities across the region.
Local boards have a been a big part of the story since amalgamation in 2010, so take a look at some of the highlights we’re proud of in our eastern suburbs.
Maungakiekie-Tāmaki Local Board
Te Oro
Te Oro opened in May 2015, and is a multi-purpose facility for music, dance, visual arts, and digital creation.
Over the past decade it’s hosted workshops, exhibitions, artist residencies for youth and the broader community in Glen Innes, Auckland.
Glen Innes Library 2.0
The Glen Innes Library was closed from January – August 2025, with the upgrade mahi consisting of a new roof, interior and exterior painting, faster Wi-Fi connectivity and other enhancements, unlocking an improved experience.
Omaru Reserve joint committee formation
This year the future of Ōmaru Reserve is secured, with the formation of a six-member committee.
Ngāti Pāoa Iwi Trust and the Maungakiekie-Tāmaki Local Board are working together to map out the path ahead for the reserve.
Tāmaki Path
The Tamaki Path is a 4km section of the wider Tāmaki Loop, that starts from Dunkirk Reserve or Wai-O-Taiki Nature Reserve.
Elstree North concept plan, engagement and design
The local board has invested $717,000 into the upgrade of Elstree North Reserve.
The $717,000 investment will provide a play space for children of all ages, active equipment for adults, as well as and an improved flow through the park.
Onehunga Bay Reserve
Onehunga Bay Reserve is a scenic walking loop around Onehunga lagoon, and connects with Taumanu Reserve via a bridge.
The well-used area includes also includes a playground, fitness equipment, skateboard ramp and picnic tables.
Eastview Reserve
The new Eastview Reserve has swings, slides, climbing frames, flying fox, as well as learn-to-ride track and outdoor fitness stations.
The local board worked with local iwi Ngāti Pāoa and Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki, who have brought new mahi toi (artwork) to the reserve that can be found on the bridges and paths.
Oranga Community Centre
Oranga’s Community Centre is set for glow-up in 2026, on the back of community engagement, refreshed design and local board funding.
The upgraded centre is part of the wider Fergusson Domain enhancements, which include a new community garden space and playground.
Panmure Bridge / Te Kōpua o Hiku
The Panmure Basin is connected again, with new bridge – Te Kōpua o Hiku.
The new bridge opened in mid-July, and features dazzling new artwork and lights, which are activated by the wind, the artwork’s shifting light patterns create gentle, breath-like movements.
Howick Local Board
Playground upgrades
From Santa Cruz, to Annalong, and Barry Curtis Parks, the Howick Local Board looks after 70+ playgrounds – is planning for the future of play in the area, including a fresh new look for the Wetlands Building.
Ostrich Farm Sports Fields
A game-changing $1.1m boost is turning plans into action, Flat Bush is one step closer to a new sports field and green space where the whole community can connect, play, and thrive.
Te Taiwhanga Taiohi - East Auckland Youth Space
East Auckland’s first-ever youth-led space burst onto the scene in April 2024! A buzzing creative hub for rangatahi, powered by the Howick Local Board and Te Tuhi, open daily for fun, connection, and growth.
New tool to help prepare for emergencies
A new plan by the Local Board and Auckland Emergency Management helps locals prepare for emergencies, empowering the community with practical tools to stay safe before, during, and after a crisis.
Howick Sports Awards
Recognising the talent - and the teamwork. The Howick Sports Awards, now in its 12th year, celebrates athletes, volunteers and the unsung heroes who back them every step of the way.
Photo credit: Lee-Stuart Creations.
Howick’s green glow-up
Environmental action is thriving in Howick! Young people, teachers, and locals are teaming up and leading sustainability efforts including planting, moth pod competition, ecological efforts, Enviroschools, Garden-to-Table plus more.
Flat Bush Library (opening Jan 2026)
Opening early 2026, the temporary library is backed by $489,000 in startup funding and $870,000 yearly from the Local Board, delivering on a 20-year promise to offer full services, digital access, and community programmes.
Estuary Art and Ecology Awards
Aotearoa’s only art prize dedicated exclusively to ecology, this award stands at the intersection of creativity and environmental action, proudly supported by the Howick Local Board and local partners.
