AUCKLAND BRANCH
AUCKLAND URBAN ISSUES GROUP
Royal Commission Report Welcomed By Auckland Groups
PRESS RELEASE – 7 April 2009
The New Zealand Institute of Architects (Auckland Branch) and the Auckland Urban Issues Group (UIG) commends the recent
Report of the Royal Commission on Auckland Governance released in March 2009.
The Commission has taken a holistic approach in its recommendations to promote the growth and development of a vibrant
and sustainable city.
Of particular note is the prominence that the report gives to the importance and value of urban design as an essential
component of a sustainable city, along with economic development, social well-being, and culture and diversity.
This approach reflects the concerns outlined to the Royal Commission in our submission of the importance of creating an
environment and governance structure, where good urban design is acknowledged as crucial for the health of the city and
encouraged at all levels of the city's operations.
We support a number of the report's recommendations including the preparation of a regional spatial plan supported by a
single District Plan and an integrated transportation authority as a sound basis for a comprehensive regional planning
framework.
Greater Auckland is a place of beauty and wonderful potential. The Auckland Governance Report directs Auckland’s future
with deliberate intention and as the Report rightfully concludes “Auckland is ready now for positive change”.
ENDS