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Te Ārai Regional Park is set to receive new visitor facilities as part of Auckland Council’s $79 million investment in parks and community assets, with funding allocated for a new car park, toilets and core infrastructure.
In late June, the council’s Community Committee approved the 2026/2027 work programme, which largely continues the investment direction established through the Long-term Plan 2024-2034.
The programme includes $29.3 million for local parks and sports fields, $14.9 million for regional parks, $10.1 million for climate initiatives, $7.6 million for cemeteries, $6.4 million for seismic strengthening, $3 million for public art, $2 million for commercial and residential leases, $2 million for slips prevention and remediation, and $3.6 million for other capital projects.
Key projects include renewing kauri forest tracks within the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park and developing land at Te Ārai Regional Park, including a new car park, toilet facilities and core infrastructure services.
Councillor Julie Fairey, chair of the Community Committee, said the programme is a significant investment.
“This funding is how the council maintains these assets and creates new opportunities for all of us to experience, contributing to the distinct identity of Tāmaki Makaurau.”
“We know we have to do better with what we already collectively own as Aucklanders, including increasing access and use of our regional assets. This significant investment, including critical areas like cemeteries and climate resilience, helps to ensure they are fit for purpose for our future.”
Taryn Crewe, general manager of parks and community facilities, said using ratepayers’ money wisely is a key consideration in funding decisions.
“This programme delivers substantial investment in infrastructure and amenities Aucklanders can use daily across the whole region. It has been enabled through the recent budget set for 2026/27 and ratepayers will see the benefit directly in their communities.
“Value for money is always a key priority in decision-making on investment areas, and this includes considering service needs and fit-for-purpose design.
“The programme was developed within a challenging operating environment shaped by ageing assets, climate related risk and continuing recovery from severe weather events.”
