Even superheroes need great community spaces – and it all starts with you

Publish Date : 01 Jul 2026
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What if the places you love in your neighbourhood were shaped by you?

From playgrounds and parks to local events, environmental work and community facilities, what happens in Howick is shaped by community priorities and Local Board decisions.

The three-year Howick Local Board Plan 2026 is coming together, and this is your chance to help shape what we do next. Have your say by 23 July.

Deputy Chair Kai Zeng and the youngest member of the Howick Local Board says, “We've heard loud and clear that people want a greater say in the decisions that affect their neighbourhoods. Now's your chance. The board wants to hear from people across our four subdivisions about what matters most to them as we shape our Plan for the next three years.”

Here are five ways community feedback has already made a difference.

 Te Taiwhanga Taiohi / East Auckland Youth space, Botany

A community event.

When young people have a voice, great things happen. Te Taiwhanga Taiohi / East Auckland Youth Space gives rangatahi (youth) a place to connect, learn, lead and thrive. This space exists because young people told us it mattered and we are proud to work with Te Tuhi and Howick Youth Council on this. Some of today's young leaders will go on to shape their schools, communities, businesses and perhaps even local government - but it all starts with having a space where their voices matter.

Flat Bush Library

A lady with a boy at a local library.

When a community grows, its shared spaces matter more than ever.  Since opening, Flat Bush Library has quickly become a well-used and much-loved community space – we’re hearing it’s always full! Recognising the need for a dedicated space where the community can learn, connect and grow, we supported its delivery, with $489,000 allocated for the first six months of operation and ongoing annual costs of approximately $870,000. This temporary library at Ormiston Town Centre supports a fast-growing community, offering a place to connect, learn and access services while a permanent one is secured in the coming years.

Barry Curtis Park, Flat Bush

An aerial view of a local playground.

Winner of Play Space of the Year 2026! Barry Curtis Park, delivered through an investment of a little over $2 million, has become one of East Auckland’s favourite destinations for families. It features an award-winning playground, wide open spaces, activities for both children and teens, and beautiful wetlands to explore. It’s the kind of place people travel for, but locals get to enjoy every day. Best of all, it reflects years of community feedback calling for high-quality parks, family-friendly spaces and environmental protection all in one place.

Half Moon Bay ferry and transport hub improvements

A ferry docked at port.

Getting around East Auckland isn’t always simple - which is why better connections matter. Half Moon Bay is a key transport hub, with improvements led by Auckland Transport with support from this local board and community feedback. Together, these changes are helping improve access, safety and connections between ferries, buses, walking and cycling routes, giving people more reliable ways to get around as the area continues to grow.

 Celebrating diversity, supporting community

A sketch artist drawing a picture of a family.

Through our funding and event partnerships, we support community-led festivals, cultural celebrations, neighbourhood gatherings and grassroots activities that bring people together. From music and food events (like Howick Culture Food Festival, Pakuranga Community Carnival and River Festival, the Auckland Classic Brit and Euro Car Show, Howick Christmas Parade, and Neighbours Day) to local workshops and family-friendly activities.

We also care for your libraries, community centres, parks and facilities, and work with community partners across arts, environment and beyond.

Tāmaki Makaurau is thriving and here is how your voice matters

Have your say 

Whether you come to a Have Your Say event, go online, or visit your local library, we want to hear from you on what comes next for Howick. Have your say at akhaveyoursay.nz by 23 July.

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