Old Howick library site set to rise again

The demolition of the old Howick library is now complete, with geotechnical investigation scheduled to commence shortly.

Once a community hub, the fate of the outdated, unsafe building has been in the air for over a decade and in Eke Panuku’s sights since 2019.

Late in 2022, Eke Panuku signed off on the sale of this site to development partner Habib Enterprises Limited, led by East Tamaki-based property developer Ayesha Ashraf. 

“We are thrilled to see this long-neglected site moving into a new phase of life,” says Marian Webb, General Manager of Assets and Delivery for Eke Panuku.

“We were able to agree a set of conditions with the developer here to get a good outcome for the Howick community.”

Habib Enterprises is now well advanced in preparing this site for its new identity.

“Our team are excited to be working on this project and are eager to create yet another landmark within Howick village,” says Ayesha.

“Our vision is to create a development that will be welcoming and offer excellent panoramic views of the area for all to enjoy,” she adds.

Key conditions of the sale are to ensure that this site now develops to support more people living and working in the Howick town centre. 

Any future build must align with Howick’s Village Centre Plan. It is likely to be at least three storeys high and include commercial or retail use at street level.

Any residential component will be to a minimum Homestar 6 rating, and any on-site parking will not be publicly visible and be accessed from Fencible Road.

Given the site’s high visibility from all sides, the new development’s design will be in line with the special character of Howick.

The developer Ayesha Ashraf has already successfully developed standalone housing and commercial buildings in east and south Auckland. 

Fencible Drive will be her first development in Howick.