Draft Only: For Discussion by the People of Wellington
THE PEOPLE’S WATERFRONT CHARTER
Preamble
The Wellington Waterfront belongs to the People of Wellington, is treasured by them and is part of their heritage. It is
a place where people participate in the full range of activities that Wellington has to offer. In this diversity lies
the value of the Waterfront to the People of Wellington.
The rejuvenation of the Waterfront began with the establishment of the Civic Trust in 1982. This Charter was established
in 2000 to give confidence to the People of Wellington as the Waterfront continues to evolve. It affirms the bond
between the People of Wellington and the Wellington City Council by establishing principles for the future of the
Waterfront.
The principles ensure that, as the Waterfront continues to evolve to reflect the full diversity that is the City of
Wellington, the People of Wellington shall maintain control over that process in order that the Waterfront continues to
belong to them and be valued by them.
In order that these principles may stand in perpetuity, they shall be endorsed by every Council at the first council
meeting of each new triennium.
Principles
The Wellington Waterfront belongs to the People of Wellington, is treasured by them and is part of their heritage.
No land on the Waterfront shall be sold.
The primary use of the Waterfront shall be quality recreational space for the People of Wellington to enjoy.
A minimum of 70% of the Waterfront shall be open to the sky.
The balance of land on the Waterfront shall be for the People of Wellington to enjoy a diverse range of activities,
including eating, drinking, playing, learning, working and living.
Future development of the Waterfront shall occur organically rather than as a single undertaking.
Any leases shall be sensible.
The People of Wellington shall control all future development of the Waterfront, through their democratically elected
Council that shall have the power of approval or veto over all proposals to improve the Waterfront.
Before approving any proposal to improve the Waterfront, the Council shall be satisfied that the design will enhance
the visual integrity of the Waterfront.
Before approving any proposal to improve the Waterfront, the Council shall be satisfied that significant cultural,
social or public benefits to the City of Wellington have been clearly demonstrated.
These principles were first endorsed by the Wellington City Council on .
They shall next be endorsed by the Wellington City Council at the first council meeting following the 2001 local body
elections, and at the first council meeting following every subsequent election.
END