Auckland waterfront skyscrapers get final fast-track approval, ministers say it shows how fast the scheme works

Today, Precinct told the NZX that resource consent approval had been granted for the development of the Downtown Carpark site under the Fast-track Approvals Act 2024.

Architects Warren & Mahoney showed this design for Precinct Properties’ two soaring new towers on the site of the Downtown Carpark site in Auckland CBD. Precinct said Warren & Mahoney and Oslo-headquartered architects Snohetta had designed the development.

“The expert panel issued the final decision today, marking a significant milestone in advancing the Downtown Carpark development opportunity,” it said.

Chief executive Scott Pritchard said that approval represented an early but important milestone in the development programme.

“We are pleased with the progress it reflects. We expect to provide the market with a more comprehensive update at Precinct’s annual results in August.”

An artist’s impression of the new building proposed on the site of the Auckland Downtown Carpark. Photo / Precinct Properties

Precinct has partnered with a main contractor, Built, on early contractor involvement until April next year.

“This key procurement workstream together with preleasing and funding capacity progress, will inform any commitment to the development,” the company said.

Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop and Regional Development Minister Shane Jones said two skyscrapers, three podium buildings and a new laneway network were approved.

This is the 28th project to be approved through the fast-track process, they said.

Precinct applied in January, so approval only took five months since the appointment of an independent expert panel.

Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop said the scheme only took months to get to this stage. Photo / RNZ, Mark Papalii

Bishop said in a statement: “This project will see the demolition of the seven-storey Downtown Carpark at the western end of Auckland’s waterfront, followed by development of the site into an integrated mixed-use precinct.

“The rebuild will include a premium 55-level commercial office tower, a 162m mixed-use residential tower, a hotel, retail, food and beverage spaces, publicly accessible civic spaces and an expansive laneway network.”

The Downtown Carpark building is to be demolished soon.

The panel found the towers’ design and spacing would limit visual impacts on the Auckland skyline.

Some issues identified during the process included impacts from traffic during construction and from hotel pick-up and drop-off arrangements.

These matters will be addressed through a range of consent conditions, including traffic management plans and the ongoing monitoring of them, Bishop said.

Shane Jones said the scheme had significant benefits. Photo / Mark Mitchell

Jones said: “The redevelopment will have significant benefits for other businesses close by, including tourism, retail, hospitality and others.”

The partnership Precinct struck with Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei reflected a shared commitment, he said.

The iwi recognises it created economic and employment opportunities, among other things, in the city centre, Jones said today.

The panel, chaired by Kitt Littlejohn, made the determination with conditions.

It cited differences in opinion about the proposed towers.

The panel noted previously that “conditioning outcomes sought were disagreed as between the applicant and other parties, including the council and Auckland Transport”.

A render of the towers Precinct Properties plans for the Downtown Carpark site, taken from the company’s fast-track application. Image / Precinct Properties

“This involved identifying the material unresolved conditional issues/approaches, rather than going through every drafting difference with a fine-tooth comb.”

The proposed height of the buildings was central to criticisms from council planners.

“The proposal fails … owing to the proposed tower heights representing inappropriate development that does not preserve the natural character of the coastal environment to meet the [Resource Management Act’s] purpose,” planners wrote.

Precinct’s scheme is for a 222.5m high tower, a block from the waterfront.

Pritchard said earlier this year he anticipates the Downtown Carpark will be demolished later this year.

Te Pūmanawa Downtown West

By Precinct Properties with Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei.To rise on the Downtown Carpark, Fanshawe St.Tower one, 55 levels or 227m high.Tower two, 45 levels or 162m high.Site bounded by Fanshawe St, Lower Hobson St.Opposite the Tepid Baths.62,500sq m office space.51,000sq m of residential gross floor area.300 to 350 apartments.2500sq m of retail and hospitality.3300sq m of new public space.Five-level basement for 613 carparks.Only for apartment and office owners/tenants.No more cheap downtown car parking, as it is now.Links to podium areas of Aon House and HSBC Building to enable connection and access through the block.Final consent given today follows draft determination.

Anne Gibson has been the Herald’s property editor for 26 years, written books and covered property extensively here and overseas.

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