Exciting changes are on the way as plans to revitalise the Old Papatoetoe town centre commence, heralding a significant transformation for the area. The initiative aims to inject new energy into Old Papatoetoe, support local businesses, and create new housing, representing a substantial investment in the community.
Manukau Ward Councillor Lotu Fuli expressed optimism about the developments, stating, “It’s encouraging to see the progress made to ensure the council can continue to meet the needs of our city and South Auckland. Old Papatoetoe's strategic location next to Manukau City presents significant opportunities for regeneration, especially with large areas of underutilised council-owned land.”
Fellow Manukau Ward Councillor Alf Filipaina, who has been involved in local governance since 2003, echoed this sentiment. “It is gratifying to witness the progress in Old Papatoetoe. With strong infrastructure, essential services, and excellent public transport access, I’m excited about the transformation we’ll see in the coming years.”
Piko Toetoe/Photo: Supplied
Led by Eke Panuku Development Auckland, the revitalisation plan seeks to improve safety, accessibility, and economic growth, bringing new life to the historic district. The council made a record investment of $3.2 billion last year in infrastructure such as roads, pipes, and buildings, and Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board Chair Apulu Reece Autagavaia is thrilled to see Old Papatoetoe included in this significant funding.
Chambers Laneway once complete. Image source: Eke Panuku/Photo: Supplied
“Revitalising Old Papatoetoe is a crucial part of our local board plan. This area will become a vibrant place to live, shop, and socialise, providing the services and facilities the community needs,” Apulu stated. “With convenient access to Puhinui and Middlemore train stations, it will be highly appealing to commuters. The area boasts beautiful art deco buildings and currently spans 12 hectares, and this plan aims to address its underutilisation.”
The revitalisation includes the Piko Toetoe housing development, currently underway behind the St George Street shops, adjacent to the Papatoetoe New World, Allan Brewster Leisure Centre, and the rail line. Board deputy chair Vi Hausia highlighted the area's potential for further growth, saying, “Old Papatoetoe has significant capacity to accommodate more residents and would greatly benefit from new investment as more diverse families choose Papatoetoe as their new home.”
Cambridge Terrace. Image source: Eke Panuku/Photo: Supplied
Vi also emphasised the importance of incorporating local culture, stating, “It’s encouraging to see mana whenua actively engaged in reinforcing and integrating the narrative and cultural heritage of the region into this project.” A council property at 91 Cambridge Terrace has already been transformed into 29 new homes by the New Zealand Housing Foundation, assisting families in achieving home ownership.
Public spaces are also set for upgrades, with the revitalisation of Chambers Laneway underway and expected to be completed by Christmas. This area will showcase a striking mural designed by mana whenua, inspired by the ‘Bittern,’ a native bird that once thrived in local wetlands but is now extinct.
Through the design process, mana whenua provided the narrative
‘The Mists of Kohuora’/Photo: Supplied
Additionally, the extension of Cambridge Terrace, also led by Eke Panuku, is slated to begin in November 2024. This new street will connect the upgraded Chambers Laneway and the Piko Toetoe development to Stadium Reserve, enhancing access and connectivity between Papatoetoe and Puhinui train stations.
The Stadium Reserve upgrade, scheduled to start in early 2025, will introduce a new playground, a basketball half court, and improved green spaces. This enhancement, along with the nearby Allan Brewster Leisure Centre, will create a vibrant hub for community activities, further contributing to the revitalisation of Old Papatoetoe.
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