BIRKENHEAD WAR MEMORIAL PARK - Masterplan Document Working Draft . February 2019_Rev B
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BIRKENHEAD WAR MEMORIAL PARK
Masterplan Document
Working Draft . February 2019_Rev B
Revision Control DATE/REVISION DESCRIPTION April 2018 Working draft for internal feedback Rev A_December 2018 Working draft for local board workshop Rev B_Feburary 2019 For public consultation
PLACEHOLDER FOR WHAKATAUKI
Acknowledgements
A big thank you to all the volunteers and club members who have given hours of their time
and helped the project team learn about the park and the great work done by the many
organisations based there:
• Danny and Adrian from All Saints Birkenhead Scout Group
• Mary, from the Auckland Council Biosecurity team
• Stacey and Jef from Auckland Canoe Polo
• Andrew, Akash, Steve and Damian from the Birkenhead City Cricket Club
• Marcia, Colleen and Stuart from Birkenhead Heritage Society
• Arnie and Anastasia from Birkenhead Leisure Centre
• Jenette, Alice and Kavita from Birkenhead PlayCentre
• Keith, Caro, Illia and Gillian, from Birkenhead Residents Association/ Birkenhead
Neighbourhood Planning Group
• Lindsay, Geoff, Stuart, Kevin, Erik and John from the Birkenhead Rifle Club
• Garry and Lynda, from the Birkenhead RSA
• Stuart, Sharon and Fiona from Birkenhead War Memorial Park Volunteers and PestFree
Kaipatiki
• Calum, BMX jump users
• Gaye, Peter, Greg from Calliope Athletic and Harrier Club
• Nick and Stephen from North Harbour Triathlon Club
• Kennedy and Colin from the North Shore Resource Centre
• Simon, Jodi and Kieran from the Northcote Birkenhead Rugby Union & Sports Club
• Jade and Bobbie from Northcote & Birkenhead Tigers Rugby League & Sports Club
• James, Garth, Alan and Patrick from North Shore Model Railway Club
• Grant Kenny, NZ Police
• Ross, Elisabeth, Jayden, Jerry, Brendan and Stuart from TheatreWorks / Mairangi Players
A special thanks also to Jill and Sonia from Kaipatiki Community Facilities Trust and the
members of the Kaipatiki Youth Board and participants in the Children’s Panel sessions!
Contents
SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION
1.1 Introduction and background 8
1.2 Location map 9
1.3 Existing buildings, structures and recreation facilities 11
SECTION 2: ENGAGEMENT
2.1 Mana whenua partnership 14
2.2 Community insights 16
2.3 Key feedback themes from stakeholder workshops 17
SECTION 3: 30-YEAR MASTERPLAN
3.1 Design principles 20
3.2 Draft masterplan 22
SECTION 4: CONTEXT AND ANALYSIS
4.1 History of the park 28
4.2 Statutory context 30
4.3 Hydrology and typography 31
4.4
Access and circulation 32
4.5 Vegetation 33
4.6 Site opportunities 34
4.7 Site constraints and known issues 35
SECTION 5: RESEARCH
5.1 Development of the masterplan 39
5.2 Park audit 40
5.3 Service needs assessment 41
Birkenhead BMX Pump Track
SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION
1.1 Introduction and background
“I express the hope that this
Introducing the masterplan
A masterplan is a visionary document that sets out a ‘road
Reading the masterplan
This document is designed to inform the community about the
Projects at the park
In recent years several projects have improved the park. These
fine Park will prove most useful map’ for how space may be used effectively in the future. This vision for the park. It is organised into four sections: include:
masterplan for Birkenhead War Memorial Park, or ‘the park’, is
and be appreciated for many an aspirational 30-year plan designed to give Kaipātiki Local
• Section 1 introduces the project and reminds readers about
the park as it is now
•
•
Entrance upgrades
Playground upgrade
Board a framework for future decisions affecting investment and
generations, and that its true development of the park and its facilities. It is a ‘regenerative’ • Section 2 discusses the involvement of mana whenua, • Toilet block renewal
existing users, and the wider community in the
purpose will never be forgotten. masterplan, which means it seeks to look at the site with fresh
eyes and think about how the local community might want masterplanning process
• New pump track
• New skate park
May it ever serve as a reminder of to use the space in the coming decades. We’ve developed the
masterplan with extensive involvement from current users of
• Section 3 presents the proposed design, explains the
principles that have shaped the design, and sets out a • New sports field lighting
what can happen when the spirit the park, mana whenua, and local schools. proposed timeline for implementing the changes However, several of the park’s current features will need to
• Section 4 provides the context that has shaped the design: be upgraded or replaced in the future. The grandstand was
of greed and jealousy gets the This masterplan provides ample space for existing groups and
clubs on the park, but it is designed to show how space might the park’s history; the statutory framework that governs condemned and therefore had to be removed, and problems
how space can be used; and various physical and user-based with land stability have potentially affected the swimming pool.
upper hand. May the sacrifices of be used in general, rather than how specific organisations might
use it. This is deliberate: we cannot anticipate what new groups factors that have been considered Other parts of the park that have been identified for future
all who served our nation and the and clubs might want a presence on the park in the future, and • Section 5 summarises additional research that informed attention include:
it’s important to make clear that this is a space with capacity the development of the masterplan • Service road
cause of freedom be not in vain” for further use. • Bush tracks
We acknowledge that the changes proposed in this masterplan Birkenhead War Memorial Park • Car parks at Recreation Drive and Mahara Avenue
Quote from Cliff Utting, extracted from the Mayor’s forward, will have an impact on current users, and we also appreciate that • Retaining wall and ramp near skate park and pool
Sitting on a 32-hectare site within the Kaipātiki Local Board
from the official opening of the War Memorial Park, 1958 it may be challenging both to wait for planned upgrades, and to
area, the park is a short walk from Birkenhead village. It occupies • Harvey Wright training field sports lights
use the park while future building work takes place. Auckland
a prominent location and is accessed from the Highbury Bypass • Various maintenance and renewal projects at Birkenhead
Council and Kaipātiki Local Board will ensure that everything
via Mahara Avenue, and from Birkenhead Avenue, with additional Pool and Leisure Centre
possible is done to support users through the process. We’ve
pedestrian access points elsewhere in the park.
included a proposed implementation plan in Section 3 of this
masterplan to show when different phases of the design may At least half of the park is covered with regenerating native
take place. bush, including mature kauri trees. The rest of the park contains
playing fields, three historic cemeteries, a public swimming pool
The park is a valuable open space asset that meets a wide range
and leisure centre, and several diverse community facilities that
of community needs. This masterplan will help to ensure that
cater to all age groups, from the youngest community members
the park can also meet the needs of tomorrow.
who grow and learn at Birkenhead Playcentre to the young-at-
heart members of the RSA who still come together regularly to
enjoy each other’s company. It provides the local population
and others from further afield with access to sport, leisure,
recreation, cultural, and social spaces.
8
uncil M
1.2 Location map N
Legend
Eskdale Willow Park Playground
Reserve Primary
Monarch School
Birkenhead
Primary Glenfield Park
School Cemetery
oad
Northcote
Eskdale R Intermediate
Glen
d Res.
field
woo Greenslade
Verran idge Reserve Northcote
Primary R
Road
School Town Centre
Castleton-Reid ke R
oad
Pupu
Scenic Reserve
NORTHCOTE
Verran Road
Gully Reserve
City Kauri Glen Reserve
View
Reserve
Birkenhead War
Memorial Park
Birkenhead Avenue
Scenic Reserve
Rotary
Grove
W
St Mary’s
ai
pa
Northcote School
St
Kauri College
re
Northcote
et
Park BIRKENHEAD Primary
School
Highbury Bypass
Onewa Ro
Fernglen Mokoia Road Birkenhead ad
Reserve Primary
Birkenhead
Town Centre
Le Roys Bush
Rawene Reserve
Road
Reserve
Dudding
Park
Chelsea Sportsfield
Primary CHATSWOOD
Chatswood Chelsea Estate Little Shoal
Reserve Heritage Park Bay
The site within its wider context . 1:12,000 @ A3
Auckland Council . BIRKENHEAD WAR MEMORIAL PARK MASTERPLAN - WORKING DRAFT | 9
10 Sport on the park
1.3 Existing buildings, structures and recreation facilities
BIRKENHEAD & NORTHCOTE ANGLICAN
CEMETERY CHI 2926
URUPĀ
BIRKENHEAD CATHOLIC CEMETERY
CHI 12959
e Birkenhe
D riv ad Avenu
e
ion
SCOUTS at
POMPALLIER cre
PARK NORTH SHORE MUSIC THEATRE Re
MODEL RAILWAY CLUB
RUGBY FIELDS
THEATREWORKS Harvey Wright
RSA Playing Fields
BIRKENHEAD PLAYCENTRE
P P RUGBY CLUB
NATIVE BUSH P
[Significant Ecological Area]
RUGBY TRAINING
NATIVE BUSH [Significant Ecological Area]
OSBORNE MEMORIAL POOL
HIGH ROPES COURSE
SKATE PARK
LEISURE CENTRE AND CLIMBING WALL
BMX PUMP TRACK
P
BMX TRACKS & OLD HOUSE SITE
(outside photo frame)
t St
CRICKET CLUB ROOMS (FACILITIES
P P
our
CRICKET, ATHLETICS & SHARED WITH ATHLETICS & LEAGUE)
nC
RUGBY LEAGUE FIELDS
REMOVED GRANDSTAND
Joh
WAR MEMORIAL
MUSEUM Mahara
Ave
CRICKET, ATHLETICS & PLAYGROUND & TOILETS
RUGBY LEAGUE FIELDS
NORTH SHORE RESOURCE CENTRE
NATIVE BUSH
[Significant Ecological Area]
2014 AERIAL PHOTOGRAPH
Auckland Council . BIRKENHEAD WAR MEMORIAL PARK MASTERPLAN - WORKING DRAFT | 1112 Mana whenua engagement
SECTION 2: ENGAGEMENT
Auckland Council . BIRKENHEAD WAR MEMORIAL PARK MASTERPLAN - WORKING DRAFT | 132.1 Mana whenua partnership
We worked closely with mana whenua to shape this masterplan. Engagement timeline
The following iwi were involved:
• Te Kawerau a Maki Design principles workshop
• Ngai Tai Ki Tamaki
Mana whenua forum Tuesday 3rd April
• Te Ākitai Waiohua
• Ngātiwai
• Ngaati Whanaunga
Initial feedback was gathered during a site walkover. A hui DECEMBER 2018 MARCH APRIL 2019 JANUARY
was also held to establish how the masterplan design could
incorporate Te Aranga Principles for design, and to identify
locations where these values could come to life in the park.
Site walkover Draft plan workshop
Wednesday 22nd March Mana whenua had an
opportunity to view
the draft masterplan.
Feedback received has
been incorporated into
the draft masterplan
Te Aranga Principles reflected in the masterplan
Te Aranga Principles are founded on Māori cultural values and
are used to support good design outcomes.
Integrating Te Aranga Principles into the masterplan enabled
1 MANA 2 WHAKAPAPA ā 3 TOHU
these cultural values and narratives to underpin the design Rangatiratanga, Authority Names and Naming The Wider Cultural Landscape
process. The outcomes relevant to each of the values presented
in the Principles are described in this table:
Outcome: Outcome: Outcome:
The status of iwi and hapū as mana whenua is Māori names are celebrated Mana whenua significant sites and cultural
recognised and respected as a council partner landmarks are acknowledged
KEY THEMES FROM WORKSHOP
• Mana whenua partnering with council staff throughout • Signage and wayfinding to express correct ancestral names • Signage and wayfinding to reflect the presence of significant
design process • Identify any names from the Māori Battalion in the Roll of sites, including kauri, urupā (Māori burial ground), and
• New informational signage and opportunities for park Honour and Book of Remembrance Eskdale Stream/waterways and wetland
naming to reflect mana whenua involvement • Heritage trails to include iwi history in and around the park
• Māra hūpara provides opportunities to teach about tikanga • Potential for māra hūpara augmented reality features to
(Māori customs) and cultural narratives bring the cultural narratives of hūpara to life
14Site walkover Marked up map from design principles workshop
4 TAIAO 5 MAURI TU 6 MAHI TOI 7 AHI KA
The Natural Environment Environmental Health Creative Expression The Living Presence
Outcome: Outcome: Outcome: Outcome:
The natural environment is protected, restored Environmental health is protected, maintained Iwi/hapū narratives are captured and Iwi/hapū have a living and enduring presence
and enhanced and/or enhanced expressed creatively and appropriately through and are secure and valued within their rohe
engagement with mana whenua
• Protect and enhance all native ecosystems • Ongoing work to improve water quality • Māra hūpara provides an educational opportunity on the • Hireable space available to use
• Protect from kauri dieback (Trigene stations at track • Ongoing management of plant and animal pests to protect park
• Pa harakeke for cultural harvest
entrances) and myrtle rust native species • Māori cultural art opportunities
• Māori cultural art and design opportunities
• Upgrade pathways to protect kauri • Staged removal of pines and other exotic species, with • Interpretative panels/information, including at entrance
native species replacing them (formal and informal) • Māra hūpara helps to acknowledge Māori history in the
• Stormwater/wetland enhancement area
• Investigate stream daylighting options • Exclusive use of native planting in the future • Relevant narratives could be māra hūpara, urupā, Māori
Battalion, kauri…
• Investigate pest/predator proof fencing (NB: not deemed
practical at this park)
Auckland Council . BIRKENHEAD WAR MEMORIAL PARK MASTERPLAN - WORKING DRAFT | 152.2 Community insights
The timeline below summarises the community consultation undertaken in the pre-design phase of this
project. Using a co-design approach helped us to ensure that the sports clubs and community groups
currently using the park were actively involved in the masterplanning process. We have stayed in touch
with current park users during the design and consultation phases.
OCTOBER DECEMBER 2018 JANUARY MARCH 2019 JANUARY
The People’s Panel The Children’s Panel Key Stakeholder Workshops
• 600 survey responses • 165 surveys via • A series of collaborative co-design workshops were held in early 2018 with
Children’s Panel representatives from the sporting codes and organisations based at the park
Drop in session
through People’s Panel and
Shape Auckland Drop in session Birkenhead RSA,
HOLD PERIOD
• Feedback from 8 local
• Respondents asked about schools and 3 youth Leisure Centre, 21st January 2019
how they currently use the organisations in Term 4 22nd March 2018 &
of 2017 Workshop 1 Workshop 2 Workshop 3 • Feedback on the
park and how they see the
park in the future Birkenhead RSA, Rugby Club, Cricket Club, Kaipātiki Local Board draft plan
• Respondents aged
between 5-19 years 31st January 2018 10th February 2018 24th February 2018 Long Term Plan
consultation
• Respondents asked about
how they currently use 22nd March 2018
the park and how they
see the park in the future
EMPATHISE DEFINE
& & PROTOTYPE TEST
DEFINE IDEATE
• Understanding needs • Coming up with ideas • Build prototypes of • Test / get feedback
• Defining the problem ideas from users
16
Workshop 1 - 31st January 2018 Workshop 2 - 10th February 2018 Workshop 3 - 24th February 2018 Collecting feedback on the prototype design at Workshop 4 - 22nd March 20182.3 Key feedback themes from stakeholder workshops
CONNECTIVITY ENVIRONMENT CELEBRATE HERITAGE COMMUNITY AWARENESS
• Improve physical connections across the • Care for the environment and protect the • Memorial / heritage walk or trail, may • Sense of belonging/home • Raise community awareness of the
park by provision of tracks and walkways bush include sculpture site and its facilities through improved
• Desire for a diversity of cultures to be
signage, publicity and social media etc
• Create a family destination within • Stormwater treatment and weed/pest • Celebrate War History by incorporation represented
the under-utilised gully. Suggestions control into design • Make it easier to navigate around
• Create a sense of unity between clubs/
included: boardwalks, natural playground, the site by improving signage and
• Provide access to natural environment • Investigate educational opportunities park users
hut making area, picnic area, flying fox, wayfinding information
stormwater treatment, community • Nature/native bush is peaceful, provides • Provide an events space for music/
gardens, miniature railway, public toilets a chance to get away from it all markets/movies etc
etc... • Utilise working bees and involve local • Inter-generational space
• Connect to the natural environment businesses and schools
• Accessible spaces for all ages and abilities
• Connect to other park users and the • Protect kauri trees
• A place for locals, tourists and people
community via shared facilities (multi- from wider community
use complex) and hosting local events
• Provide for arts/culture, sports and
• Possible shared arts and culture space/ informal recreation activities
facility
• Create a safe and fun environment for
• Celebrate the history of the site through the whole family to enjoy
heritage trail
• Provide areas for passive recreation
• Connect the site to the wider
environment, including Highbury,
schools and the public transport network
Auckland Council . BIRKENHEAD WAR MEMORIAL PARK MASTERPLAN - WORKING DRAFT | 17
Model created at Workshop 3 - 24th February 2018 Workshop 3 - 24th February 2018 Model created at Workshop 3 - 24th February 2018Californian quail (Callipepla californica)
SECTION 3: 30-YEAR MASTERPLAN
3.1 Design principles
Community-led design
The design themes ‘connection’, ‘community’, and ‘celebration’ sum up the key feedback
received from mana whenua, current site users, and the wider community. These terms
capture a range of dimensions which are represented in the words below.
Connection Community Celebration
people wider community park users Birkenhead people park users tourists locals Aucklanders people park users sports active lifestyles
touristsinter-generational locals Aucklanders intergenerational all ages and abilities history Birkenhead whanau family
all ages and abilities whanau multi-use facility Multi-use sports facility whanau education sacrifice heritage arts and culture
diverse user groups natural environment active and passive recreation diverse user groups community Pompallier Park War Memorial
native flora & fauna wildlife corridors War Memorial leisure sense of belonging Mātāwaka play belonging Birkenhead Anglican & Catholic
cultures history recreational open space publicity and awareness arts and culture precinct culture Urupā respite natural
Cemetery
leisure access and connectivity around park movies markets events space festivals environment peace diversity
way finding and signage connection to Highbury music culture mana whenua neighbours
Centre Schools local transport network ecology safety local schools and businesses accessibility
walkways neighbourhood parks friends
20By using these themes as a starting point, five design principles Casual and frequent park users alike will benefit from increased
were established. open space throughout the park. The site will be linked by the
development of māra hūpara (an area dedicated to Māori play), a
The vision for the park is:
picnic area, and improved pathways for cyclists and pedestrians
1. A place to play, be active, and participate across and around the park. The park will be a space for people
2. A place to learn and celebrate when car parking is moved to its edges.
3. A place where nature is protected Throughout the park improved signage will make it easier for
4. A place to connect with others users to navigate the space and move between different areas.
New informational signage will increase local knowledge about
5. A place that provides for changing community needs
the park’s historical, cultural, and natural history and current
activities.
A park for everybody
The masterplan design illustration shows the park as a place to Benefits of the new design include:
participate, train, play, learn, and socialise. It makes minimal
• More open green space for people to enjoy
changes to the current layout of the park, focusing on bringing
together groups, organisations, and activities into themed areas • New multi-use facilities to house clubs and organisations
with clustered and/or shared facilities. Over the next 30 years it • Increased capacity for community events
transforms the park into a space with capacity for more users, • Opportunities to leverage and support partnerships
and greater opportunities to enjoy the natural environment between organisations
through enhanced walking and cycling tracks.
• Sustainable use of resources that work for the greatest
On the western side of the park (off Mahara Avenue) the number of users
proposed multi-use facility focuses on sport and leisure. It offers • A wider range of activities for users of the park
shared public and club space close to the aquatic facilities. The
• Easier navigation and movement for users within the park
public plaza creates space for park users to experience and enjoy
a wide range of community events, with increased outdoor • Greater understanding of the park’s ecological and cultural
leisure facilities providing more reasons to visit the park. significance
On the eastern side (off Birkenhead Avenue/ on Recreation
Drive) the RSA and rugby club buildings remain, but in time the
clubs and community groups currently housed in small, ageing
buildings will transition to shared, but flexible facilities: an
educational precinct, and an arts and culture precinct.
Auckland Council . BIRKENHEAD WAR MEMORIAL PARK MASTERPLAN - WORKING DRAFT | 21BAN
KS ST
GLEN
REET
FIELD
UE
EN
ROA
AV
EN
OAD
D
ILL R N
GL
H
ARK
RO
P
BE
3.2 Draft masterplan
CO
RN
IE
PL
AC
E
BIRKENHEAD AND
NORTHCOTE
ANGLICAN CEMETERY
BIRKENHEAD
CATHOLIC CEMETERY
& URUPĀ
HA
GU
EP
LAC
E
VIENNA PLACE P
P
BIRKE NHEA D AVEN UE
RSA
RUGBY
P P
P
LEGEND
PUMP
E
AC
Site boundary TRACK
PL
WARATAH STREET
AI
Native bush
W
TI
TI
Amenity planting
Riparian planting
M IR A
PROPOSED
Stream / waterway MULTI-USE
KA PL
FACILITY
Specimen / shade trees
ACE
Bush / informal tracks - primary
(existing & proposed)
Bush / informal tracks - secondary
PLACE
SKATE
(existing & proposed)
R W IC K
Pedestrian / cycleway - primary P
P
(existing & proposed)
IA N M A
Pedestrian / cycleway - secondary
JOH N COU RT STR EET
(existing & proposed)
Service vehicle access
P Existing carparking to remain
P Proposed carparking
Existing buildings to remain
MAH ARA AVEN UE
Picnic areas
Interpretative signage
GLEN
Wayfinding signage
WOO
Proposed heritage trail
D AVE
WILL
OW
NUE
AVE
S
AS
YP
NUE
B
U RY
HB
HIG
22Zoning key
The design map shows the types of use allocated to different parts of the park. The
zoning key below suggests the existing park use envisaged for each space, but there
would also be space and capacity for new types of use in the future.
Arts / Culture / Heritage Sports & Recreation Aquatic Facilities Education Environment / Ecology Informal Recreation / Play
• RSA • Rugby club and sports fields on • Relocated outdoor swimming pool • Shared multi-use facility with • Native bush • Skatepark and pump track (existing)
• North Shore Music Theatre, Recreation Drive • Expanded water play area dedicated spaces for All Saints • Revegetation and enhancement of • Playground (existing)
Theatreworks, Model Railway Club (in • Sports fields and athletics facilities at Birkenhead Scouts and Birkenhead bush • Space for additional outdoor leisure
a shared multi-use facility) Mahara Avenue Playcentre
• Boardwalks and walkways facilities (e.g., basketball, volleyball)
• Museum, War Memorial Shrine • Proposed multi-use sports building: • North Shore Resource Centre
• Māra hūpara (Māori play area)
(which includes the Roll of Honour) proposed features include a new (relocated)
• Picnic areas
(relocated) leisure centre, flexible indoor court • Development of ‘Education Outside
• Plaza / events space spaces, a climbing wall, pool and the Classroom’ spaces and facilities
changing facilities, shared club rooms,
• Historic cemeteries
to accommodate several sports clubs
• Heritage trail linking park and using the Mahara Road end of the park
cemeteries
• Terraced seating / bleachers
Auckland Council . BIRKENHEAD WAR MEMORIAL PARK MASTERPLAN - WORKING DRAFT | 23What is māra hūpara? 3.2.1 Environmental protection
Māra hūpara = Māori playground The community loves the park because it gives them an opportunity to enjoy a peaceful
bush environment. Protecting this natural asset is a priority in the masterplan. At
Hūpara = piece of Māori play equipment present, kauri dieback has not been detected in the park, but it is elsewhere in the
Kaipātiki Local Board area, and it is a priority for the local board, mana whenua, and
Māra hūpara can be thought of as a traditional Māori playground. By adding māra hūpara we will also increase play opportunities many community and volunteer groups to ensure that the park’s beautiful kauri remain
In the days before Europeans came to Tāmaki Makaurau iwi in the park. As these pictures show, hūpara are made from healthy. The masterplan seeks to provide ongoing protection for the environment by
would each have their own hūpara, which were used to teach natural materials and offer a totally different play experience. maintaining paths and walkways that enable the community to enjoy the space, without
children the skills they’d need to thrive as adults. Each hūpara Children are encouraged to test themselves, climbing higher and putting irreplaceable ecological treasures at risk. Increasing the informational signage
taught children something different: from how to move quickly balancing as their confidence grows. Māra hūpara are certified as throughout the park, providing more shoe-cleaning stations, and upgrading or re-routing
over uneven ground to how to climb and balance. This concept playgrounds and are subject to the same health and safety checks tracks will further protect kauri in the future.
of learning through play is something that wasn’t embraced by as conventional playgrounds. Their natural materials complement
the rest of the world until recently, but now it is well understood the landscape, bringing the stormwater gully to life and providing
that giving children fun physical challenges helps to develop their families who visit the park with more ways to enjoy the space. 3.2.2 Key moves
strength, balance, and confidence.
We are proposing māra hūpara in the stormwater gully that The main changes proposed in the masterplan are summarised in the following table:
currently divides the two sides of the park. The individual hūpara
will represent mana whenua, helping the community to learn From... To...
more about pre-European life in Birkenhead. This will bring an Ageing facilities New, fit-for-purpose, flexible facilities
important cultural narrative into the park, making it a destination
for local schools who want to teach their students about Māori Many facilities taking up a lot of space Fewer facilities providing more space for
history and culture in an active, enjoyable way. people to enjoy the park
Cars dominating the park People dominating the park
Limited play options Increased opportunities for young people
to play and have fun
Building space only for existing sports Building space with flexibility, able to
clubs and community groups accommodate new users in the future
A disjointed space that feels like two A cohesive park with good connections
separate parks, divided by a stormwater and activity throughout the site
gully
No information about the history and Plentiful information to remind users
ecology of the park that the park is an important space to be
treasured
We propose moving the existing War Memorial Shrine from its current location at the
Mahara Avenue to the Recreation Drive side of the park. The entire park serves as a war
memorial, and the existing site of the War Memorial Shrine dates back to when the
original war memorial hall stood on what is currently the leisure centre. However, it
makes more sense to locate the War Memorial Shrine near the RSA building. We want
to strengthen the links between these cultural and historical components and make it
easier for civic celebrations like ANZAC Day to be held at the park. Developing a heritage
trail from the nearby cemeteries reinforces historical connections.
Māra hūpara at Oakley Creek
24Investment level key
Low
Low-medium
Medium
3.2.3 Implementing the masterplan
Medium-high
Each proposed change on the park can be viewed as a separate project. The time line
below helps to explain when the different phases of the new design could take place, and
we want to hear from the wider community to gather their feedback about what they High
feel the priorities area. It’s important to remember that each component will require all
the usual stages of project planning, designing the new buildings or facilities, gaining
necessary resource consents, and tendering processes. * External funding /
partnership options
High Ecological
Ongoing
restoration
Permanent
track closure
Priority for implementation
Develop/upgrade
(cemetery)
walkway/
Track upgrades
(kauri
cycleway link * Multi-use facility
/recreation
centre (Mahara
protection)
Ave)
Temporary Entrance signage Wayfinding
signage
activation of ‘old
grandstand’ site Pool including * Education node
* Māra hūpara
(Māori play
* •
Story telling
heritage Plaza
new water play
elements) • nature
Removal of • history
development
Move parking
* heritage
Arts / culture /
precinct
‘dirt jumps’
* War Memorial
Shrine relocation
(Mahara Ave)
Move parking
(Recreation
Heritage trail Drive)
from cemetery to
shrine/ RSA
Low
Short term Medium term Long term
(0-5 years) (5-15 years) (15+ years)
Proposed timeline for implementation
Auckland Council . BIRKENHEAD WAR MEMORIAL PARK MASTERPLAN - WORKING DRAFT | 2526 Pompallier Park Cemetery
SECTION 4: CONTEXT AND ANALYSIS
4.1 History of the park
Prehistoric Māori settlement has Land was acquired as a recreation reserve to provide
An acre of land was given by The Birkenhead Anglican
occurred in the area in the 1700s. for the recreational needs of the Borough, including
Major Isaac Cooper to the Cemetery is the site of
much needed sports grounds and recreational
The general area is significant Anglican Church and the land the first recorded burial
amenities, and to serve as a fitting memorial to the
to all iwi groups in Tāmaki was established as a cemetery in Birkenhead, Margaret
sacrifices made by those serving in the two World
Makaurau - particularly Te for the Protestant communities McCallum, wife of the
Wars. This included 45.5 acres of land and a dwelling
Kawerau a Maki of Birkenhead and Northcote Reverend A.M. McCallum
purchased from Mr J.W.Court, seven acres from Mr
Pre-european history 1864 1880 C.J. Utting, and an additional 12 acres
1900 1950
1861 1887 1947 1958
The area was once covered
In 1861 a three-acre plot was Birkenhead War Memorial Park was formally
in mature kauri forest. opened by Governor General Lord Cobham
transferred from local settler Philip
Callan to the first Roman Catholic on the 19th April. It included sports fields, a
Bishop of Auckland, Jean Baptiste grandstand, sports pavilion and a memorial
Francois Pompallier, for a token shrine containing the names of over six hundred
payment of 10 shillings sterling. This men and women from the area who served
site also includes the area of Māori overseas in both wars.
graves (urupā).
Enlargement from 1887 map of Birkenhead and Northcote, by W.F. Hammond & Son
Architects and Surveyors
281963 aerial photograph, from Auckland Council GIS
The museum, known
as Farrington House,
was shifted to the site
The rugby and cricket grounds from Colonial Road in
were formed in the 1960’s. 1993. The museum was
Extensive earthworks were restored by volunteers,
required to create the level including Mr Eddie
playing fields. Farrington, a former
Transfer of the Anglican
employee of the sugar
The clubrooms and halls along Cemetery to Birkenhead City The grandstand was demolished
works.
Recreation Drive were also Council for the token sum of
established 10 cents 1993 2018
1963 1960’s - 1970’s 1980
1975 2000
Auckland Council Map
1961 1971 1973 1987 2001 ´
On Anzac Day a Book of The Osborne Memorial The Catholic Cemetery
Remembrance was unveiled in Swimming Pool was was gifted by Bishop
the shrine, listing the names of opened Browne to birkenhead
the 66 men from both World City Council, with a
Wars who had given their lives. portion of the land to
be held as a reserve
and named after
Bishop Pompallier (now
Pompallier Park)
1970
The Birkenhead War Memorial
Hall was opened behind the shrine
on the 25th April. Today the hall
is a recreation centre.
Vienna Place and Birkenhead War Memorial Park, Birkenhead, 2001 aerial photograph, from Auckland Council GIS
Auckland. Whites Aviation Ltd :Photographs. Ref: WA-71381-G.
Alexander Turnbull Library, Wellington, New Zealand. /
records/23090352 DISCLAIMER:
This map/plan is illustrative only and all information should be
independently verified on site before taking any action. Copyright
0 50 100
Meters
150
Auckland Council. Land Parcel Boundary information from LINZ Scale @ A3
(Crown Copyright Reserved). Whilst due care has been taken,
Auckland Council gives no warranty as to the accuracy and plan = 1:5,000
completeness of any information on this map/plan and accepts no
liability for any error, omission or use of the information. Date Printed:
Height datum: Auckland 1946. 15/01/2018
Auckland Council . BIRKENHEAD WAR MEMORIAL PARK MASTERPLAN - WORKING DRAFT | 294.2 Statutory context
Auckland Council
When designing the future use of land at the park it is important
to consider the implications of broader plans and controls 4.2.3 Cultural Heritage
that may influence what can be achieved. These include the The Cultural Heritage Inventory (CHI) identifies two recorded
Auckland Unitary Plan, and various Auckland-wide overlays and Historic Structures within the park boundary. These are
designations. Birkenhead Anglican Cemetery and Birkenhead Catholic
Cemetery.
Cemetery CHI-2926
4.2.1 Auckland Unitary Plan Birkenhead Anglican Cemetery One Archaeological Site has recently been recorded at the park:
a shell midden adjacent to the service road.
Under the Auckland Unitary Plan (‘AUP’) the park is zoned
Cemetery CHI-12959
‘Public Open Space’. It is split into two subtypes: Conservation; Birkenhead Catholic Cemetery
and Sport and Active Recreation.
Conservation zoning acknowledges the landscape, cultural, and
historic heritage values of the site. This zoning has the following Legend
objectives: N
ZONING
Conservation Zone Objectives:
PUBLIC OPEN SPACE
1. Public open spaces with natural, ecological, landscape, and
heritage values are protected and enhanced and available to Conservation
the public to use and enjoy.
Sport and Active Recreation
2. Recreational activities and associated buildings and
structures complement and protect the values and qualities
of the public open space. RESIDENTIAL
Birkenhead War Single House
The draft masterplan is consistent with this zoning because it CHI-22044
seeks to strengthen ties with the park’s history through signage Memorial Park MIdden
and a heritage trail. By consolidating the existing community Mixed Housing Suburban
buildings into a smaller number of multi-use facilities the
Mixed Housing Urban
masterplan provides more access to public open space for all
park users to enjoy.
Terrace Housing and Apartment Buildings
Sport and Active Recreation zoning has the following objectives:
BUSINESS
Sport and Active Recreation Zone Objectives:
1. Indoor and outdoor sport and active recreation Neighbourhood Centre
opportunities are provided through a network of quality
public open spaces that meet the community’s needs. Town Centre
2. The use of public open space for sport and active recreation
is maximised. OVERLAYS
The masterplan provides the community with increased space Significant Ecological Area- Terrestrial
for indoor and outdoor sport and recreation opportunities and
makes the best possible use of the park. Adding new features like Historical Heritage Overlay Extent of Place
māra hūpara provides additional space for recreation.
4.2.2 Overlays and designations CULTURAL HERITAGE INVENTORY
Most of the conservation land within the park is covered by a
Historic Structure
Significant Ecological Area (‘SEA’) overlay, which signals the
importance of protecting this natural environment. Other
Archaeological Site
designations and controls that affect the park are:
• Airspace Restriction Designation Park Boundary
Auckland Unitary Plan - Operative in part - extracted from Auckland Council GIS
• Stormwater management area control
• Macroinvertebrate Community Index
30
0 50 100 150
DISCLAIMER:
This map/plan is illustrative only and all information should be4.3 Hydrology and topography
Topography describes the physical shape of the land, and hydrology describes the water systems in the park. There are
two main types of topography in the park:
GLEN
• Large, flat areas – used for playing fields and recreational activities
FIEL
D
ROA • Steep valley systems – covered in native bush and running from north to south through the park.
D RD
IL L
KH
PAR Several small tributaries feed into the streams at the bottom of the valleys. Within the main streams there are slow-
flowing pools that provide an important food source for fish, eels, and birds, as well as other creatures that live in
the water. The park also contains three of the headwater tributaries for Eskdale Stream, which flows through much of
Kaipātiki.
OA D
KE R
PUPU
Wetland planting in the valley below rugby training field
BIRKENHEAD AVENUE
ACE
PL
K IC
IAN MARW
Stream within the bush Flat sections of the site utilised as sports fields
GLEN
MAHARA AVE
LEGEND
WOO
Streams N
WILL
HIGHBURY BYPASS
D AV
Wetland
OW
E
Overland flow path
AVE
Flood prone areas
MOKO
IA RO
AD
Contours (1m)
Auckland Council . BIRKENHEAD WAR MEMORIAL PARK MASTERPLAN - WORKING DRAFT | 314.4 Access and circulation
By considering access and circulation as part of the masterplanning process we can clarify how people typically enter
the park, and where they are likely to travel when they’ve arrived.
GLEN
The park has two main clusters of development – one accessed off Recreation Drive, and the other accessed off Mahara
FIEL
Avenue – and this clustering of facilities continues in the masterplan. There is an unsealed service road that links the
A D two areas, and this remains in the masterplan. There is no intention to provide a public road link through the park.
L RO
D RD
IL
KH
PAR The masterplan supports good walking and cycling connections by developing a shared pedestrian and cycle path on
the service road through the stormwater gully, linking the two sides of the park. Moving car parking to the edges of the
D
KE R park also increases opportunities for people to walk and cycle in the park in a safer environment.
PUPU
The pedestrian-only access route from Park Hill Road is shown on this map. Three additional pedestrian-only access
points are proposed from Miraka Place, Vienna Place and Willow Avenue. A previous access point from the cemeteries
on Birkenhead Road has been closed to protect the park’s kauri.
Beyond the park’s boundaries there are greenway routes proposed in the Kaipātiki Connections Network Plan, which
are shown on this map. This Network Plan is intended to provide improved long-term walking, cycling, and ecological
connections in the wider area, although this will be contingent on future funding.
VIENNA PLACE
P
ROSE
BERRY
P P
AVE
P
MIRA
BIRKENHEAD AVENUE
KA PL
PLACE Mahara Ave entrance Recreation Drive carpark
CK
ACE
P
I
IAN MAR W
P
P
MAHARA AVE
GLEN
HIGHBURY BYPASS
WOO
WILL
D AV
OW
Service road connecting the two parts of the site Bush track
MOKO
E
AVE
IA RO
AD
LEGEND
Existing pedestrian paths ACN connector route (existing/proposed) N
Existing vehicle circulation Proposed Kaipātiki greenway route (from the
Existing service road (unsealed) Kaipātiki Connections Network Plan - Updated
August 2016)
P Existing carparking
Primary park entrances
Bus routes and stops
Secondary park entrances
324.5 Vegetation
The park contains three main types of vegetation: bush areas; open lawn (typically used for sports fields); and amenity
planting – vegetation added to increase the attractiveness of the park.
GLEN
The high-quality native bush includes several mature kauri trees that are 200 – 400 years old. In the western valley
FIEL
D there has been virtually no development, enabling this part of the park to flourish relatively untouched. The eastern
ROA
D RD
IL L valley includes a podocarp forest with a complete canopy and clear undergrowth. There are also several pine trees
KH
PAR clustered around the historic cemeteries.
The park currently contains several areas severely affected by weeds. This is being addressed through biocontrol
methods, with the following activities taking place:
OA D
KE R A. Chinese privet lacebug released to combat Chinese privet
PUPU
B. Gall wasps released to treat 600m2 of giant reed by attacking the plant’s stem to prevent it from growing.
A volunteer group has also been active in the park in the past two years and has undertaken extensive weed control
and planting, as well as mice, rat and possum control. An ecological restoration plan has been written this year and is
to be implemented by the volunteers with the assistance of Pest Free Kaipātiki and Kaipātiki Local Board.
A.
B.
High quality native bush
BIRKENHEAD AVENUE
ACE
PL
K IC
IAN MARW
GLEN
MAHARA AVE
WOO
Section of overgrown bush track The slopes of the gully are infested with Elephant grass
HIGHBURY BYPASS
WILL
D AV
LEGEND
OW
E
Native bush SEA (from Auckland Unitary Plan) N
AVE
Grass Weed species
MOKO
IA RO
AD Amenity/specimen trees Riparian vegetation
Auckland Council . BIRKENHEAD WAR MEMORIAL PARK MASTERPLAN - WORKING DRAFT | 334.6 Site opportunities
LEGEND
Signage
This page summarises the opportunities for design that were initially Proposed path connections Existing site attributes
identified for the park. The opportunities identified are now reflected in Improved / upgraded paths
the masterplan design. Path closures
Ecological improvements
Development nodes/opportunities
Improvements/upgrades as
required to existing paths/ Create interpretative signage and improve
steps /boardwalks to improve wayfinding information
accessibility and access.
Introduce path hierarchy Track permanently closed to protect kauri
All track upgrades to protect
kauri (upgrades aligned to History
renewals)
Creation of an arts and culture precinct,
investigate consolidation of facilities.
Opportunity to strengthen
connections into park from Improve entrance signage and wayfinding
residential neighbourhoods to information
the west
Strengthen walking and cycling connections
between parts of site
Complete path connections Create family/natural play destination in gully
to activate area
Ecological and stormwater improvements and education
opportunities through weed clearance, restoration
planting and stormwater treatment Bush setting
Investigate options for:
Ecological improvements, weed
• consolidation of facilities into multipurpose building
Extensive range of activities
removal and restoration planting
• siting of pool and other recreational facilities
• creation of open air market/events area
Condemned grandstand
(now removed), investigate Heritage trail/walk to highlight and celebrate points of
consolidation of facilities into interest around the site
multi-use building
Investigate relocating Museum, Resource Centre
and War Memorial to Recreation Drive to
strengthen relationship with RSA and other cultural/
community facilities
Improve wayfinding information and
signage
Strengthen connections into park
from residential neighbourhoods
to the south
344.7 Site constraints and known issues Existing land uses
Birkenhead Ave
This page presents specific limiting factors that have influenced design
decisions for the masterplan. Issues such as the land stability and
resulting suitability of certain areas of the park for high-value new
facilities have been considered when deciding the best likely locations
for new buildings. Sections of existing path narrow and in
poor condition. Path permanently closed Recreation Drive
to protect kauri
Flood prone areas
All works within the bush, and proposed
Steep contours in places path/track improvements to stay clear of
Mahara Ave
kauri trees to minimise the risk of kauri
dieback disease
Existing BMX track is a health Incohesive collection of buildings.
and safety hazard - the tracks Current configuration has resulted in
have not been used since large areas of hardstand and multiple
storage shed was destroyed driveways/accessways
by fire Proposed land uses
Limited parking at peak times
Birkenhead Ave
Indicative closed landfill zone -
restrictions on development
SEA areas have special protection
Recreation Drive
Clubrooms nearing the end of their life Flood prone areas
Grandstand has been removed
Higher risk development zones
Steep contours in places
Limited parking at peak times
High water table impacts leisure centre
Mahara Ave
SEA areas have special protection
LEGEND
NATURE/ECOLOGY PRECINCT
SPORTS & ACTIVE RECREATION PRECINCT
COMMUNITY, ARTS & CULTURE PRECINCT
UNDER-UTILISED LANDCOLOGY ACTIVE RECREATION ITY, ARTS & CULTURE ILISED LAND Prototype exercise at Workshop 3 - 24th February 2018
SECTION 5: RESEARCH
38 Aerial of Mahara Ave entrance and facilities
5.1 Development of the masterplan
“We see huge potential for a combined
sports facility covering cricket, rugby
As already presented in this masterplan, extensive partnering league, calliope and the gun club...”
with mana whenua and consultation with current park users
and key stakeholders has been undertaken to ensure that our “Its our home”
recommendations for the park fulfils the community’s vision
MANA WHENUA PARK AUDIT
and its future needs. Te Aranga Māori design Quality perception
principles park and facilities “Peaceful bush setting”
We also conducted an assessment of the needs for parks,
pools and recreation in the local board area to help inform Refer 2.1 Refer 5.2
the masterplan based on current and potential future needs “We don’t have an official street address,
of the community, and audited the quality of the park to so can be tricky to give people directions
determine what we need to work on to create a high- quality
park. or get mail”
“Distinct lack of parking. On weekends,
COMMUNITY SERVICE NEEDS the traffic is backed up out on Birkenhead
INSIGHTS ASSESSMENT Avenue, and it is hard to actually move in
Needs and Current and future Recreation Drive and the carpark”
aspirations
Refer 5.3
Refer 2.2
“Birkenhead War Memorial Park is a
great community asset. My family and I
enjoy using its facilities regularly”
Masterplanning process
“We do make our facilities available
for meetings or training courses in the
STAGE 1 STAGE 2 HOLD STAGE 3 STAGE 4 STAGE 5 evenings and weekends”
September 2017-March 2018 January 2018-April 2018 PERIOD October 2018-February 2019 March 2019-August 2019
“It is imperative to retain these areas for
the future well being of a much greater
April 2018 - October 2018
pending completion of service needs assessment
population on the North Shore”
“The facilities are starting to get a bit old
RESEARCH ANALYSIS DESIGN APPROVAL IMPLEMENTATION and worn out”
• Identification of • Analysis of information • Development of guiding • Wider community • Short, mid, long term
existing information collected during principles for design consultation actions “I think that not enough people know
• Document review discovery phase • Development of key • Amendment of design • Priority projects about it, and its not a place people would
• User and non-user • Identification of current moves • Endorsement of final • Funding strategies
research and future needs / users • Draft design design by local board go to often”
and non-users • Partnership
• Research with key opportunities
stakeholders • Potential to set desired
quality standard for park
• Park audit (piloting (based on park audit)
Greenspace Scotland
Framework)
Engagement with mana whenua
Auckland Council . BIRKENHEAD WAR MEMORIAL PARK MASTERPLAN - WORKING DRAFT | 395.2 Park audit
In order to assess whether the park is performing 1. Access and connectedness 2. Safe and welcoming places 3. Biodiversity and ecosystems
well we modified a process developed by
Greenspace Scotland to carry out a park quality
audit. This enabled us to consider whether the park
meets the seven criteria for high quality parks.
The factors we looked at were:
• Places that are accessible and well connected
• Safe and welcoming places
• Places where biodiversity and ecosystem
services are protected
• Places to be active and improve health and
well being
• Places that foster community ownership and a
sense of belonging
We added in two additional factors:
• Places where historic and culture heritage is 4. Active lifestyle- supports health and wellbeing 5. Community ownership and support 6. Cultural heritage
treasured
• Places that are sustainable
The park scored well in the areas of biodiversity
and contributing to an active and healthy lifestyle,
as well as fostering community ownership and a
sense of belonging.
Areas that have been identified as needing
improvement are: accessibility; connectedness; safe
and welcoming places; protecting and celebrating
cultural heritage; and sustainability.
The key findings of the park quality audit are
summarised in this following diagrams.
7. Sustainability Audit overall result - parks staff
405.3 Service needs assessment
In the service needs assessment, we evaluated the park services,
active recreation, and pool and leisure facilities provided at the
park. We also considered the need for halls for hire, community
centres, and community leases in the wider local board area.
When we looked at targets for the provision of community
and park facilities we used various Auckland Council guiding
documents: the Community Facilities Network Plan; the Open
Space Provision Policy; and the Parks and Open Spaces Strategic
Action Plan.
Park Services Pool and leisure Active Recreation
Including sports field provision
We also took into account the potential population growth in
the area.
• Tracks – some gap in provision; upgrade of the service road • Pool provision in the local board area is appropriate for the • There is a shortage of indoor courts in the Kaipātiki Local
The key findings of the service needs assessment are summarised in the park to cater for walking and cycling identified as current and likely future needs of the population (based on Board area. 2-3 courts can be accommodated in the multi-
below: a priority item in the Kaipātiki Connections Network Plan 2013 census data). use facility at Mahara Avenue
2016 • The two pools in the local board area are in good locations • The athletics facilities at the park should be upgraded
• Toilets and changing rooms at Mahara Ave – some toilets to ensure easy access for most of the population. • The development of mountain bike facilities at the site was
and changing rooms were housed in the (now removed) considered, but is deemed not to be appropriate because of
grandstand; some provision in the Cricket Club buildings – the risk of introducing kauri dieback
need to replace facilities lost by removal of the grandstand
• Gymnastics – a sub-regional facility already exists in
• Car parking – shortage of parking spaces in the park at peak Kaipātiki, any further sub-regional or regional facilities
times should be located further north; therefore, this is not
• Sports field provision – some oversupply of hours, mostly recommended for the park.
for rugby league
• Play – improve play experience at the park, include play for
different age groups and nature play as per the Kaipātiki
Strategic Play and SunSmart Provision Assessment
• Signage – there is a current lack of signage in the park No gaps in provision were identified for hire facilities,
(entrance, directional and interpretative) community centres and Community Leases.
• Lack of socialising spaces in the park
Auckland Council . BIRKENHEAD WAR MEMORIAL PARK MASTERPLAN - WORKING DRAFT | 41
Parks audit site walkover with local board members and council staffYou can also read
