Sustainability in New Zealand
My first 24 hours in Auckland has got me thinking about sustainability.
What sustainability looks like here.
And how it relates to the industries I write for.
🟨 In Architecture: struck by this yellow box hanging as if unsuspended above Auckland's waterfront Wynyard Quarter.
Laurence Wright - New Zealand architecture as promised.
This the headquarters of ASB (The Auckland Savings Bank) North Wharf, designed by BVN Architecture - a climate positive team of architects, designers and strategists focused on flexing building design boundaries. Committed to a net positive future.
The more I read about them and look through their amazingly insightful and exciting projects the more impressed I am.
Completed in 2013, BVN's unique design mirrored ASB's focus on sustainability. Inspired by the wharves of the Waitematā Harbour and the ecology of the wild north coastline.
Sustainable design that announces that the well-being of staff and the wider environment is at the forefront of their vision for the future.
🍀 In commercial garden design: our apartment overlooks the University of Otago, founded in 1869 it's New Zealand's oldest university.
Over the last few months I've been learning and writing about the importance of commercial green spaces, so I couldn't help but notice the lush, green planting on the outside terraces.
Sue Payne - I'm sure you'd be excited by the potential for increasing natural habitats and biodiversity here, mid-city.
These terraces are an indication of the University's commitment to their social and environmental responsibilities. Focused on a sustainable future and intending to operate on 100% renewable by 2030. Reducing waste and being more energy efficient.
In recent months, I've learned (because I've been writing about it) how much urban gardeners in London are pushing sustainability norms for the benefit of communities, wildlife and to reduce carbon emissions.
The green spaces here in Auckland provide a highly valued educational, well being spaces for students and staff. And offer exciting opportunities for habitat, flora & fauna exploration for the wider community.
⚓️ In the marine industry.
With our Lymington roots, we feel right at home on a marina. The first place we head to on my arrival in Auckland. The Wynyard Quarter (Harbour), reclaimed land on the Waitematā Harbour on the west of the Auckland waterfront. A buzzing marina of cafes, play parks, outdoor swimming pool, theatre, cultural events and maritime museum.
Then down on the far end is moored the $357 million superyacht IJE, owned by Australian billionaire James Packer. But as I look down its sleek sides I notice the big black fenders protecting its pearly-white, 108m-long sides from bashing against the wooden pontoon.
I couldn't say for sure, but they made me think of another client DEFENDA LTD who manufacture inflatable super yacht fenders, with their sustainable bioprene fender covers.