Closing a main street opens new possibilities for reconnecting Wānaka’s community with its scenic landscape
With easy access to mountain and lake recreation, it’s no wonder Wānaka became a popular resort town. But, popularity, and the growth it spurs, can undermine the original appeal of a town. Unprecedented growth in Wānaka resulted in fragmented development, poor land use, and substandard transport outcomes, putting the town’s unique characteristics under pressure. For example, a main arterial road severed the town’s centre from its scenic lakefront.
Wanting solutions that would enhance the character and quality of life in the town, the Council sought our expertise. Their directive to us was irresistible—be bold! So—we closed the main road. A four-day closure let us test how the community and transport network would respond to transformational change. It provided the community with a sense of how the space could be used, reconnecting their town centre with the lakefront, activating streets and public spaces, and improving movement by all modes.
In partnership with architectural consultants, Jasmax, we developed a masterplan (addressing urban design strategies) and a programme of transport investments for Wānaka. We worked closely with mana whenua (indigenous land rights group) to integrate mātauranga Māori (knowledge, wisdom) into the outcomes. With survey outcomes, test data, and an actionable masterplan, the Council is confident their town will become even more popular.
At a Glance
- Offices
- Client
-
- Queenstown Lakes District Council
- Partners
-
- Jasmax
Sarah Connolly, Team Leader, Transportation, Dunedin / Senior Principal, Transportation Planner
I’m keen to be part of a fundamental change in how engineers and planners “do” infrastructure.
Tom Young, Senior Principal, Urban Places Geographic Sector Leader (Ontario & Atlantic)
Making cities more resilient must allow people to live better lives with a lighter footprint. The future of urbanism is people-centred.
Kylie Huard, Senior Transportation Planner/Practice Leader - Active Modes & Complete Streets
I’m passionate about making a difference—I love working with communities to develop solutions that will improve livability and equity.
We’re better together
-
Become a client
Partner with us today to change how tomorrow looks. You’re exactly what’s needed to help us make it happen in your community.
-
Design your career
Work with passionate people who are experts in their field. Our teams love what they do and are driven by how their work makes an impact on the communities they serve.