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Making Space for Water

Posted 23 08 2023

in News

Flooding in Auckland 2023. Photo Credit: nzfloodpics
Flooding in Auckland 2023. Photo Credit: nzfloodpics
Feedback Closes 31 August 2023

In early 2023, the Tāmaki Makaurau / Auckland region experienced a series of extreme weather events, with record-breaking rainfall, floods, landslides and high winds. Tragically, six people lost their lives. Thousands of people have been affected, and homes, businesses, and communities have suffered long-term impacts. Auckland Council is committed to supporting communities recover and prepare for the future.

To address these events, Auckland Council formed the Recovery Office and created an interim recovery plan. Council is now developing the Tāmaki Makaurau Recovery Plan and a series of stormwater improvements called 'Making Space for Water' to focus on the longer-term recovery.

They want your feedback on these plans.

Tāmaki Makaurau Recovery Plan
The Tāmaki Makaurau Recovery Plan will outline priorities for region-wide and local recovery activities. This plan is a legal requirement to address the repair, regeneration and resilience of our region.

'Making Space for Water'
The council's Healthy Waters department is developing a series of stormwater improvements called 'Making Space for Water' as part of recovery efforts. Healthy Waters is planning nine initiatives to reduce flood risks and make big improvements to Auckland's stormwater network.

They propose to deliver the initiatives over six years including:

  • infrastructure improvements, such as culvert and bridge upgrades
    increased stormwater maintenance
  • empowering our communities to prepare for and increase resilience to flooding
    creating blue-green (waterways and parks) networks to allow stormwater to safely pass through urban areas.

Feedback is needed to help develop the Tāmaki Makaurau Recovery Plan and refine the 'Making Space for Water' initiatives.

To make a submission or have your feedback considered, please:

complete the online feedback form from 9am Thursday 3 August 2023.
visit your local service centre or library

Feedback closes Thursday 31 August 2023.