A message from our Chief Executive

The health and wellbeing of our 200+ employees is of utmost importance. In March we began asking our employees to work remotely, so when the lockdown was announced we were well prepared. We’ve worked closely with our people to ensure they’re supported, whatever their situation at home is. In line with the government’s directive, our staff continue to work from home under Level 3, except for our essential service workers.

Panuku manages a large property portfolio on behalf of Auckland Council. Over the past few weeks, we have been looking at how we can support tenants who have asked for our help. Support would be in the form of a rent reduction for some and a rent deferral for others, depending on individual hardship circumstances.

Now that we have moved into Level 3, construction has begun again on many of our key projects including the Gasometer car park in Takapuna, which we’re building to free up the central Anzac Street site for public space and mixed-use development. We’re also progressing the marine village and promenade at Westhaven, as well as several other waterfront sites including the Vos Shed and pile berth redevelopment.

As has already been announced, all of Auckland Council’s budgets will be reduced as a result of the pandemic. I am working with leaders across the business to map out a clear plan, but undoubtedly, we will have to reprioritise our work. However out of constraint comes creativity, and we are balancing this uncertainty with cautious optimism about what can be achieved.

The pandemic has pushed the resilience of our city to its limits. But it has also proven that, in times of crisis, building a city of neighbourhoods is more important than ever. Living in close communities, with good access to local shops and public transport, is not only convenient but also brings safety, security and a sense of belonging.

As Auckland’s urban regeneration specialists, we’re more determined now than ever to shape spaces that Aucklanders not only love, but that also make us stronger and more resilient in times of crisis.

Ngā mihi

David Rankin

Chief Executive (acting)