Bachelor of Landscape Architecture ākonga have showcased their responses to the risk of flooding in Tāmaki Makaurau at New Lynn War Memorial Library.

The community will understand the importance of future professionals having a good working knowledge of this issue given the extreme weather events in early 2023.

The design work by third-year students: Isabelle Cushman, Isaac Denny, Amelia Lawson, Ben Nicklin, and Joy Vo, was carried out during Semester One.

They were supervised by lecturers, Xinxin Wang and Damian Powley.

The design journey began with an inspiring flood workshop hosted by West Auckland based iwi, Te Kawerau ā Maki and Auckland Council Healthy Waters, setting the stage for meaningful collaboration, according to Senior Lecturer Xinxin Wang,

“Using New Lynn as a case study, our students explored community flood resilience solutions in collaboration with the Whau River Catchment Trust, Te Kawerau ā Maki, and Auckland Council’s Healthy Waters.

“Students applied principles of water-sensitive design, community engagement, and Mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge) to develop flood resilience. They created solutions across three spatial scales: the Upper Rewarewa Catchment, Neighbourhood masterplan, and detailed design.”

Their master plans prioritised space for water, creating wetlands, detention basins, and floodable parks to manage floods.

Using water corridors as the central spine, students then interwove ecological and cultural elements to create new public spaces.

In the detailed design stage, students incorporated many nature-based solutions, including stream daylighting, green roof, and native flora and fauna to protect the mauri (lifeforce or essence) of the wai (water).

“Many cultural spaces are integrated into neighbourhoods and streets, creating educational and recreational opportunities for the community to enjoy,” says Ms Wang.

“The work displayed in the public exhibition demonstrates the impact of good community engagement and collaboration. It shows by working collectively, we can build a flood-resilient Auckland.”

Xinxin acknowledged the support of the local community, including Gilbert Brakey, Angus Campbell, and the Whau River Catchment Trust, for help developing the project brief.

Ms Wang also thanked community leader, Jewelz Petley, for sharing invaluable cultural insights, as well as Auckland Council Healthy Waters specialists: Bianca Lilley, Nancy Baines, and Teresina Robredo De la Vega.

Landscape Architecture Program Leader, Associate Professor, Matthew Bradbury was also acknowledged for his support throughout the project and the exhibition.