Old Papatoetoe town centre revitalisation is underway

The upgrade of Chambers Laneway, located next to the Papatoetoe Chambers building, will begin construction in late August this year and is expected to be complete by Christmas.

The laneway, which is the first of three key revitalisation projects kicking off over the next six months, will soon feature improved lighting, better visibility, new paving, and additional greenery, making it a more inviting and safer pathway between the main street and Piko Toetoe development, the leisure centre, and the Wallace Road car park.

The addition of a new bus stop will further benefit public transport users, enhancing their experience and promoting a people-friendly environment in Old Papatoetoe. 

Chambers Laneway will also feature a statement, Mana Whenua designed, mural. The theme of the mural is the ‘Bittern’, a native wetland species no longer present in the area. Our mana whenua nominated artists, Charles and Janine Williams, have taken inspiration from the Bittern and the surrounding wetland, as well as the large Puriri tree in the laneway which has influenced the colour palette.

Connectivity will also be improved with the extension of Cambridge Terrace. With construction set to commence in November 2024, this new street will link the upgraded Chambers Laneway and Piko Toetoe development to Stadium Reserve, which is also undergoing a significant upgrade.

The road extension will not only improve access to the reserve but will also enhance the connection between Papatoetoe and Puhinui train stations, making it easier for residents and visitors to navigate the area.

The Stadium Reserve upgrade, scheduled to begin in early 2025, will include the construction of a new playground, basketball half court and enhanced green spaces, solidifying the reserve as the recreational heart of Old Papatoetoe. Together with the neighbouring Allan Brewster Leisure Centre, this upgrade will provide a much-needed hub for community activities.

Through the Stadium Reserve design process, Mana Whenua provided the narrative ‘The Mists of Kohuora,’ which shaped the playground design. This narrative is reflected in the undulating mounds within the play area, as well as the rich volcanic colour palette used in the cushion-fall areas.

Additionally, a swale weaves through the play area, featuring user-activated ‘misters’ that serve both as water play elements and as a subtle homage to the area’s naturally misty landscape.

In addition to the public realm projects, private developments are bringing more homes to the area which is another cornerstone of this transformation.

The Piko Toetoe development on Tavern Lane, currently underway, will introduce a mix of 2, 3, and 4-bedroom terraced houses to the area.

At 91 Cambridge Terrace, an underutilised council property has now been developed into 29 new homes by the New Zealand Housing Foundation who support families into home ownership.

These developments contribute to increasing the number of people living, working, and shopping in Papatoetoe which will boost safety, vibrancy, and economic activity in the town centre, providing more customers for local businesses.

Overall, this series of projects is set to create a more connected, accessible, and vibrant community in Old Papatoetoe.

The investment in public spaces is expected to attract further private sector investment, resulting in sustained growth and regeneration of the town centre.

By prioritising quality public investment, Eke Panuku Development Auckland is laying the groundwork for a thriving, dynamic future for Old Papatoetoe.

A karakia whakawātea, led by led by Te Ākitai Waiohua, was held on Monday 19 August 2024. The occasion was cultural preparation to begin breaking ground on these three exciting public realm projects in Old Papatoetoe.