Transforming Auckland

The bridge would become an anchor attraction for the waterfront, injecting massive vitality into the waterfront regeneration process. It would provide multi-directional, pedestrian-friendly access to the waterfront and harbour, not only to and from the North Shore and the existing CBD waterfront areas, but also west of Wynyard Point into the area released by the de-construction of the St Mary’s Bay motorway.

In this way, the bridge would ensure that Wynyard Point becomes a hub – rather than the western end-point – of waterfront activity.

The addition of new recreational, residential or commercial spaces along the St Mary’s Bay foreshore could act as a catalyst for urban regeneration projects throughout the central city. Over time, it’s possible to envisage a series of urban villages and parks forming a “greenway” extending from the city end of the old bridge through to the Auckland Domain.

The bridge itself presents almost limitless possibilities to interact with the city and its inhabitants. Additional features could include viewing facilities for yacht match-racing and other aquatic sports; an island supporting the bridge’s cantilevered cable-stay mast; smart lighting displays; and hospitality and retail areas.

An iconic structure of this scale would significantly elevate Auckland’s profile on the international stage.