WSP report, Puhinui case study

04 December 2023

  • Manukau

A new report, published by the Helen Clark Foundation and engineering consultants WSP, stresses the essential need to work with communities to adapt to climate change.

In the report, Te Whakaoranga o te Puhinui (Puhinui stream regeneration programme in South Auckland) led by Eke Panuku is held up as a successful example of this meaningful way of working.

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The report finds that involving communities in climate adaptation efforts is just as crucial as finding the right engineering solutions for natural events, like flooding or storms.  

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L-R: Tom Mansell, Head of Sustainable Outcomes (Healthy Waters); Roxanne Haines, Placemaker (Eke Panuku); Sara Zwart, Head of Placemaking (Eke Panuku), Right Hon. Helen Clark, Kali Mercier: Deputy Director & WSP Fellow (Helen Clark Foundation); Councillor Richard Hills

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L – R: Ian Blair, Managing Director (WSP); Right Hon. Helen Clark; Murray Bruges, Executive Director (Helen Clark Foundation); Alexanda Whitcombe, Empowered Communities (on behalf of Eke Panuku); Councillor Richard Hills; Gemma Greenshields, Community Engagement (WSP); Kali Mercier: Deputy Director & WSP Fellow (Helen Clark Foundation)

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L – R: Murray Bruges, Executive Director (Helen Clark Foundation); Alexanda Whitcombe, Empowered Communities (on behalf of Eke Panuku); Councillor Richard Hills; Gemma Greenshields, Community Engagement (WSP); Kali Mercier: Deputy Director & WSP Fellow (Helen Clark Foundation)

Kari Mercier, WSP fellow and the report’s author, argues that “engaging meaningfully with communities in a spirit of true collaboration around climate change adaptation will bring multiple benefits, and failing to do so would be a critical mistake.”

Although Eke Panuku is the instigator of the Puhinui regeneration strategy, it is very much a collaboration between Te Waiohua Iwi, the Auckland Council whanau, crown agencies, community organisations and the culturally rich, unique, and diverse communities of Te Puhinui.

The purpose of the Te Whakaoranga o te Puhihui strategy – with its charter signed by key project partners – is to realise the regeneration of te Puhinui in a way that is inclusive, place sourced, culturally led and community fed. It outlines a roadmap for action which increases the influence, decision-making and active involvement of local stakeholders.

The ‘Empowered Communities Lead’ for the Puhinui project, Alex Whitcombe, spoke at the report launch about the power of connecting over a cup of tea and building trust and opportunities for locals to be empowered through the changes taking place in their neighbourhoods. Born and bred in South Auckland, the project is close to his heart.

Many of the work streams, such as creating new wetlands, cycleways, and significant native planting already employ many local South Aucklanders, and there will be many more job opportunities to come.

This inclusive approach has also been fundamental to the success of Te Ara Awataha, a stream daylighting and greenway project in Northcote. This project also seeks to create climate resilience and encourage behavioural change supporting low-carbon lifestyles in our growing communities. 

To read more about the ongoing work, Te Whakaoranga o te Puhinui - EkePanuku

To read the full report: A Shared Future - The Helen Clark Foundation