Upper Harbour is one of Auckland’s fastest-growing areas, home to people from many different backgrounds. Local investment is creating ways for people to join in and belong.
Local board plans are the starting point for that investment based on community feedback.
“Our community is growing and changing, and it’s important that our investment keeps pace,” says Upper Harbour Local Board Chair Anna Atkinson.
“We also need to focus on what matters most; bringing people together, celebrating our rich mix of cultures, and keeping Upper Harbour a great place to live.”
From community initiatives to shared spaces and environmental projects, here are five ways investment through our local board plans is making a difference.
Diverse communities, local voices
Upper Harbour is a vibrant, multicultural community, with more than half of residents from diverse ethnic backgrounds.
Following development of the Upper Harbour Ethnic Peoples Plan 2025–2030, investment is helping bring the plan to life through cultural events, community programmes and grassroots initiatives shaped by local needs.
This is helping spark activity, strengthen connections and create a stronger sense of belonging.
Working together to care for our environment
Upper Harbour is rich in natural beauty, with special places that locals care deeply about and are working together to protect.
From planting and pest control to restoration work, volunteers are creating safe habitats for native wildlife. Projects like Greenhithe Possum Free help protect bush areas, while work in places like Rosedale Park supports waterways, food growing and wellbeing.
These efforts also bring people together, build skills and create pride in local environments.
Spaces to stay active and connect
Investment in sports facilities helps create spaces where people can get active and spend time together.
At Unsworth Heights, the $3.5 million upgrade at Caribbean Drive includes improved football and baseball fields, lighting, walking paths and facilities. The full-sized baseball diamond can now be used year-round.
With better access and quality spaces, it’s become a hub for players, families and the wider community.
Local creativity in the spotlight
In Upper Harbour, local investment is helping the arts scene thrive, bringing local creativity into the spotlight. Open Art Studios returned for its second year, with 20 artists across nine studios welcoming visitors.
People met artists, saw live demonstrations and explored creative spaces. The event supports local talent while drawing visitors and adding to Upper Harbour’s creative energy.
Helping people connect and belong
In Upper Harbour, community centres and shared spaces are part of everyday life and places where people come together, connect and build friendships.
Places like Meadowood Community Centre, Albany Hub, Albany Village Library, Sunderland Lounge and The Headquarters host classes, events and social gatherings. For newcomers and migrant communities, they also provide support and connection.
In growing areas like Whenuapai, ongoing investment is helping support new communities as they settle in.
Have your say
These are just some of the ways local investment through our local board plans is making a difference.
We want to hear from you as your feedback helps shape what comes next for Upper Harbour, visit akhaveyoursay.nz/localboardplans.
Stay up to date
Sign up for your Local Board E-news and get the latest news and events direct to your inbox each month. Or follow us on Facebook.