Waterfront to City

• Project typeInfrastructure
• Project value$29.2 million has been allocated through the 2024-34 Long Term Plan
• Project scheduleConstruction is currently scheduled within years 4 to 7 (2027-2031) of the Long Term Plan
• Contractor nameIsthmus, Chester and Flow Transport Specialists

We are currently in the early concept design phase for the Waterfront to City project, a key inner-city initiative that will strengthen connections between the CBD and the waterfront while creating a safer, more vibrant and people-focused urban environment.

The Waterfront to City project has been developed to help deliver the long-term vision set out in Council's strategic planning documents, including the Whangārei City Centre Plan and the Complete Streets Masterplan.

The proposed works will transform John Street into a high-amenity, one-way slow street, supporting improved traffic flow, better pedestrian access, and a more attractive and sustainable streetscape.

This approach will help create a balanced transport network where vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians of all abilities can move efficiently and safely through the city centre.

Importantly, this project also aligns with the need to renew essential underground infrastructure along the corridor within the next few years. These services are nearing the end of their life and will require replacement regardless.

By coordinating this work with surface upgrades, Council has an opportunity to deliver long-term infrastructure resilience while also enhancing the quality, function and appearance of the street environment at the same time. 

Impacts for Whangārei’s city centre

The Waterfront to City project is designed to deliver a range of long-term benefits for the inner city:

• Improved traffic flow and parking access: A simplified one-way street layout will create more predictable vehicle movements and provide easier access to parking, reducing congestion and improving overall network efficiency within the CBD.
• Enhanced pedestrian access: Wider footpaths, clearer crossings and safer intersections will make it easier for people to move comfortably between the waterfront and the city centre.
• Vibrant street environment: Pedestrian lighting and dedicated zones for outdoor dining and street-level activity will encourage people to spend more time in the area, supporting local businesses and increasing foot traffic.
• Stronger city-to-waterfront connection: The design will create a clear, legible and attractive route linking Dent Street at the waterfront through to Cameron Street in the heart of the central city.
• Sustainable urban design: Integrated green infrastructure, including raingardens, will help treat stormwater naturally before it enters the network, improving water quality and resilience in this low-lying area while contributing to a greener streetscape.

The Waterfront to City project reflects Council’s commitment to investing in both essential infrastructure and place-based improvements.

By coordinating underground renewals with surface upgrades, the project maximises value and minimises future disruption, while delivering a more liveable, resilient and economically active city centre.

Construction is currently scheduled within years 4 to 7 of the Long Term Plan (2027–2031).

Feedback and questions relating to this process are welcomed:

Email: WaterfrontToCity@wdc.govt.nz

Location

John Street, Whangārei 0110  View Map

-35.72481199784052, 174.32265486560408

John Street , Whangārei 0110

John Street , Whangārei 0110

Waterfront to City