Observation Green – Landscape Architecture Design Services

Client name:

Upper Harbour Local Board and Auckland Council – landscape architecture project.

Site/Address:

1 Observation Green, Hobsonville, Auckland 0618

Project overview:

Thomas Consultants was hired by Auckland Council to deliver a detailed concept design for a new park at Scott Point in Hobsonville, Auckland. The green site is located on the southern side of the region and is surrounded by recently developed, high-density housing.

Goal:

To provide a local park that residents of surrounding areas can frequently visit and enjoy. The park features a nature play area, an all-ages fitness course, a community picnic/gathering space with shade, a main cut-through pathway, and a learn-to-ride track with pump sections.  Other features include mounding and planting, tree planting, and an open kick-a-ball space. The park serves as a functional space for children to use after school unsupervised, and as a community space for residents to relax and come together.

Process:

This project was picked up at concept design stage from Auckland Council design team, to carry through to detailed design and then construction. The concept is currently being fine-tuned with the community and the local board and then will be developed toward its end goal of construction. A series of open public consultation events have been held as well as the design being published on Auckland Councils Have Your Say website for open community feedback.

The value that Thomas Consultants team will add: 

Our landscape architecture team developed a practical and thoughtful design which would encourage social interactions for people of all ages. The team was committed to working with the community throughout the design process and implementing ecological and environmental concerns, including the use of significant areas of native planting.

The design prioritised ecological well-being by incorporating extensive native plantings. Local elements were highlighted to strengthen the connection to the surrounding area.

Partners we worked with on the project:

• Auckland Council (specifically Community Facilities)
• Upper Harbour Local Board
•  Te Kawaerau ā Maki

Services provided:

Community engagement, developed and detailed design, co-ordination with furniture and equipment suppliers, and eventually construction delivery.

Outcome:

Hundreds of local residents attended the official opening day in 2023. It was wonderful to see so many families enjoying the park facilities which engaged interactions.