A lot of other threads seem to end up referring to Newmarket, which is a pretty major sub-centre of Auckland. So perhaps it does need its own thread.

This is particularly of interest as the Newmarket Growth Area Structure Plan has its hearing next week. Sadly it's too late now for anyone to make a submission on the Structure Plan.

If you really want to read all about the Structure Plan, submissions that were made and so on, here's a link: http://www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/council/members/hearings/20081013_0930/hrg-131008-report-agd-%231.pdf

In any case, I will paste in a few key points about the structure plan:

Proposed plan modification 196 seeks to provide for residential growth in Newmarket while retaining opportunities for employment growth in accordance with the Auckland City Growth Management Strategy 2003 and the liveable community plan for Newmarket.
The Auckland City Growth Management Strategy (“the growth strategy”) was adopted in 2003. The growth strategy sets out where, when and how Auckland will grow and ensures that change will happen in a managed and effective way. The key intention of the strategy is to encourage vibrant town centres within the city by:
• focusing growth around town centres that can provide the services, shops and jobs that the growing population needs
• increasing the density of development in those town centres so that there are sufficient people and activities to support improved passenger transport and other services and activities
• coordinating growth areas with passenger transport and infrastructure – putting growth areas close to rail stations and bus routes and managing drainage and stormwater.
Newmarket is identified as an “urban living area” in the growth strategy. Urban living areas are suitable for residential and mixed-use growth and are based around town centres that already have (or potentially will have) the transport, schools, open space, community services and shops needed to create a vibrant community.

Sounds fairly reasonable so far...

A liveable community plan (“Newmarket’s future”) outlining the framework for how Newmarket should grow was prepared in September 2004. Newmarket’s future established the following guiding principles:
• “reinforce the economic importance of Newmarket as a sub-regional centre and provide for growth which complements the CBD
• build on Newmarket’s diversity, the mix of shopping, office, education, community facilities and residential areas
• showcase quality urban design
• offer urban living choices
• respect and build upon Newmarket’s established identity and sense of community
• retain and enhance the historic, cultural and natural identity and amenity of the area
• take into account Newmarket’s context and role in the city and its relationship with other town centres in Auckland
• feature a well-connected street and public space network
• provide a safe and attractive environment for walking, cycling, public transport and private vehicles
• provide for the needs of specific sectors of the community, including youth and people with disabilities
• fulfil the role of an efficient transport node catering for the needs of the local community and through traffic.”
The area affected by the Plan Change is smaller than that which was covered by Newmarket’s Future and is restricted primarily to the centre of that area excluding much of the surrounding residential areas. This is because not all of the Newmarket’s Future area required new planning rules to achieve the objectives of that document.

I have had a brief read through this, and there are some good aspects of it. I noted the following:
- Reduced level of parking required. In fact, the new structure plan has maximum and minimum levels of parking provision, rather than the usual minimum only.
- More high-density residential/mixed-use zones. This should lead to better urban design and higher densities of development around the core shopping area. The Business Mixed Use zone and the Residential 8 zone require much more 'urban design analysis' than the Business 3 and 4 zones, which is where most of the current crap apartments have been built.

I do wonder whether much of the damage has already been done with some very poor developments here. Sure the increase in density is great, but it has come at a bit of a cost, most obvious with the "two concrete wall" development on the corner of Remuera Rd and Broadway. I also wish that a direct link from the new train station to Broadway was more possible.

Marvellous idea!

Why there's a seperate Takapuna thread.

A Manukau thread or is that for the entire south Auckland city :)

Missing a Waitakere and separate Henderson thread though, or am I just being blind?

Newmarket:

Ok we all know about this one

13 Jan 2008
http://www.pbase.com/craigsyd/image/103253591.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/craigsyd/image/103253606.jpg

a Few different views

http://www.pbase.com/craigsyd/image/103253125.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/craigsyd/image/103253116.jpg

Not much has been said about these

http://www.pbase.com/craigsyd/image/103253127.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/craigsyd/image/103253607.jpg

Anyone know the story with this sore thumb?

http://www.pbase.com/craigsyd/image/103253589.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/craigsyd/image/103253590.jpg

The metal works across the road has let go of its storage space and something boutiquey is been built

http://www.pbase.com/craigsyd/image/103253123.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/craigsyd/image/103253608.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/craigsyd/image/103253610.jpg

Area for 227 expansion is been demolished to this point

http://www.pbase.com/craigsyd/image/103253609.jpg

Always interesting window dressing in Newmarket

http://www.pbase.com/craigsyd/image/102938660.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/craigsyd/image/102938662.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/craigsyd/image/103253121.jpg

Dan Carters shop GAS opens soon in Nuffield

http://www.pbase.com/craigsyd/image/103253114.jpg

Anyone know the story with this sore thumb?

http://www.pbase.com/craigsyd/image/103253589.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/craigsyd/image/103253590.jpg

Before the addition of the new shop-line complex (I have no idea how else to call it), all the owners were consulted and filled in on the fact that their places would be totally redone into modern spaces now occupied by banks and some retail stores. Mr. Shoe Repair Man was against his place being teared down and objected. The fact that his place was smack-bang in the middle of what was planned, much arguing and then deliberation ensued and it was decided to go ahead with the plan and keep the shoe repair place to satisfy the man whose father had started up the company some years ago. You could say this is typical nimbyism but it is actually nimbyism that I admire :lol:. It adds character to the area and will go down in Newmarket history as a cute little 'urban legend' and Broadway doesn't seem look the worse for it anyway. :)

^^

Agreed, but maybe we should all club together and buy the man some paint so he can fix that awful rusty sign up!

Does anyone know if the development on the present Lion Red brewery is still going through?

If so, when is the expected start date?

I think they need to build a new HQ out in East Tamaki first.

^^

Agreed, but maybe we should all club together and buy the man some paint so he can fix that awful rusty sign up!

Its meant to look rustic, like a shop in the "wild west".

Westfield own that whole block. The story I heard, Westfield would not give them any special treatment if he were to sell and move into the new block. Market rent would probably cripple that business. They probably only survive because its right outside a busy bus stop and of course own the premise.

Any pictures of this brewery redevelopment someplace?

Seriously needs a *lot* more connectivity between Carlton Gore Rd and Khyber Pass Rd. Hopefully thats included.

Has construction of New Market train station statrted yet?

Has construction of New Market train station statrted yet?

Has it WHAT! :banana:

Its nearly finished, to be comissioned in November, Jan opening I think.

It is nearly finished and so far she is a beauty :) They are apparently running ahead of schedule and could be completed by November 2009 - cross fingers :)

Pics here: http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showpost.php?p=39019812&postcount=3290

Newmarket Station looking good.

A second big station redevelopment for the city - its like Auckland has finally reached puberty and is marching on towards being a young adult city :)

Newmarket Station looking good.

A second big station redevelopment for the city - its like Auckland has finally reached puberty and is marching on towards being a young adult city :)

It does feel that way. It's like people are slowly waking up to Auckland's potential although there is a long way to go like you say it's kind of like we have hit adolesence as a city. I have to say i've seen more progress in Auckland in the last 8 or so years than any time before that.

I think that's one of the exciting things about living in this city,despite it's faults (and there are plenty) it's a work in progress and there is the potential there for it to be a pretty great place.

I think that's one of the exciting things about living in this city,despite it's faults (and there are plenty) it's a work in progress and there is the potential there for it to be a pretty great place.

I got that distinct impression when I was back in Summer.....its why I'm toying more and more with a move there late 2009/early 2010....

Yep it is a different place from what it was. I think the difference now is both local politicians and those in central government recognise the importance to NZ of getting Auckland sorted.

It's still got a lot of shortcommings and there is a long way to go before we can truly call it a proper "world class" (i hate that term, but use it for lack of a better one) city. but the progress over the last decade has been huge, considering the lack we had before that.

Yes. Never spent much time in Auckland, but thoroughly enjoyed 5 days or so there in january. Really opened my eyes.

Back to the topic of this thread, I'd love to live in Newmarket, but I doubt I'd get my desired property size/quality for my budget.

With regards to the apartment development, not sure how I feel about it. In some of Mr KFs shots it looks good, like this one:

http://www.pbase.com/craigsyd/image/103253591.jpg

However, in others......meh:

http://www.pbase.com/craigsyd/image/103253127.jpg

No a house anywhere near there would cost a small fortune (Remuera and Epsom being the surrounding suburbs) Looks like there are now plenty of apartments around that new train station though. Could be a bit more affordable.

Its meant to look rustic, like a shop in the "wild west".

Westfield own that whole block. The story I heard, Westfield would not give them any special treatment if he were to sell and move into the new block. Market rent would probably cripple that business. They probably only survive because its right outside a busy bus stop and of course own the premise.

From the herald in 2007

The land the shop stands on is owned by Tram Lease, which owns large sections in the neighbourhood, but in 2003 the Court of Appeal ruled the firm could not demolish the wall separating the shop from a neighbouring KFC. The demolition would have damaged the shoe shop's roof and structure, the court said.

Peter Snelling of Tram Lease called the shoe shop a "blot on the Broadway landscape", but the court ruled in favour of the shop and its owner.

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/news/article.cfm?c_id=3&objectid=10421330&ref=rss

A few Newmarket before and afters

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3463/3754837564_448c04b2e3_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/3754837564/)

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2619/3754038873_558a3c7469_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/3754038873/)

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2633/3754038287_b81f82228c_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/3754038287/)

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3439/3754838844_e620b066ac_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/3754838844/)

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3477/3754838208_0f05241ca1_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/3754838208/)

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3536/3754027491_ab7c9b018d_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/3754027491/)

I think I liked the before a little more, the red fences look a bit 'naf but it was a bit more secluded and cosy feeling, the new version is cold bare and has one little tree They could have at least planted it out a bit more.

I think I liked the before a little more.

Really? Wow, I think the "after" is immeasurably more pleasant. Look at those nice paving stones!! :lol:

Really? Wow, I think the "after" is immeasurably more pleasant. Look at those nice paving stones!! :lol:

Sure the paving needed to be redone, but it's just so barren and stark now.

less cluttered now.. BUT! ... the trees were good, hope these trees get bushy quick lol

Sure the paving needed to be redone, but it's just so barren and stark now.

I agree. Since the Queen Street revamp has been completed, Auckland has gone crazy with the same paving used EVERYWHERE. It's okay for Queen Street, but its slowly turning up everywhere! Needs some colour IMO.

Same with the Nikau Palms. Not that they dont look great on Queen Street, its just that every other landscaping project around the city now has Nikau Palms.

Same with the Nikau Palms. Not that they dont look great on Queen Street, its just that every other landscaping project around the city now has Nikau Palms.

I know what you mean, but I am in two minds...

I guess its a little uniform and could be seen as boring. But on the other hand, the prevalence of the palms will see it become a symbol of the city, which I think is kind of cool and unique.

Interestingly, Wellington seems to be doing something similar in the CBD near the harbour, only with Pohutakawa. "Greening The Quays" I think they call the project.....

Looks much better! Thanks Mr kf :)

88 Broadway

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2586/3779574473_d1e479f3da_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/3779574473/)


http://www.equinoxgroup.co.nz/images/photos/investments-88-broadway.gif
(http://www.equinoxgroup.co.nz/investments-88-broadway.cfm)

The blurb:

Uniquely positioned above the Newmarket railway lines, 88 Broadway is unlike anything New Zealand has seen before.

An innovative development combining approximately 15,000m2 of commercial space 2100m2 of retail space fronting onto Broadway and 130 apartments, 88 Broadway promises to be something exceptional.

Incorporating elements of water and light into its architecture, this modern, green-star-rateable building allows for the easy flow of road, train and pedestrian traffic into and through the development.

In keeping with the overall design, the multi-level office building is filled with light and provides the perfect workplace environment. With Auckland's continuing traffic congestion and the move to commute via public transport, 88 Broadway's direct link to trains and buses gives it instant appeal.

88 Broadway

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2586/3779574473_d1e479f3da_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/3779574473/)


http://www.equinoxgroup.co.nz/images/photos/investments-88-broadway.gif
(http://www.equinoxgroup.co.nz/investments-88-broadway.cfm)

I'm looking forward to seeing how that project progresses. I hope Ontrack got some good money for selling the air rights above their tracks.

edit

Where this development will be going:

http://i446.photobucket.com/albums/qq186/fusion234/Picture6-1.png

Some interesting images of the 88 Broadway development.

http://i446.photobucket.com/albums/qq186/fusion234/Picture7-1.png

http://i446.photobucket.com/albums/qq186/fusion234/Picture6-2.png
http://i446.photobucket.com/albums/qq186/fusion234/Picture5-3.png
http://i446.photobucket.com/albums/qq186/fusion234/Picture4-4.png
http://i446.photobucket.com/albums/qq186/fusion234/Picture3-5.png
http://i446.photobucket.com/albums/qq186/fusion234/Picture3-5.png
http://i446.photobucket.com/albums/qq186/fusion234/Picture2-5.png
http://i446.photobucket.com/albums/qq186/fusion234/Picture1-9.png

Some interesting images of one of the previous designs for Station Square and the buildings surrounding the Newmarket station.

http://i446.photobucket.com/albums/qq186/fusion234/Picture7-1.png

http://i446.photobucket.com/albums/qq186/fusion234/Picture4-4.png

http://i446.photobucket.com/albums/qq186/fusion234/Picture2-5.png


These three are definitely all 88 Broadway renders looks like. and the rest?

These three are definitely all 88 Broadway renders looks like. and the rest?

Good point, I had assumed they were renders of the buildings surrounding the Newmarket railway station - however, I think I am mistaken. They are all of the same building which as you say is 88 Broadway. What is interesting is that they mention a connection to the railway station.

"A 40,000 sqm mixed use development incorporating retail, offices, apartments, hotels, plaza and access to a railway station. Currently undergoing design"

From here (http://www.leuschke.co.nz/)

Some interesting images of the 88 Broadway development.

Now that you mention it, it highlights the missed opportunity that was Station Square. It looks like a concrete jungle, barren and cold with no trees srrounded by cheap apartments and laundromats at ground level.

I am guessing the shopping there will improve once the connection to Broadway is improved by ACC (they plan to demolish 2 buildings to create a larger opening) and the station opens. Perhaps some big planter pots and cafe outdoor seating will warm the place up a bit.

Good point, I had assumed they were renders of the buildings surrounding the Newmarket railway station - however, I think I am mistaken. They are all of the same building which as you say is 88 Broadway. What is interesting is that they mention a connection to the railway station.


yeah, its definitely not station square.

This is a fantastic development.
ITs absolutely huge. From the images up there, there are at least two buildings behind the front one,
The best thing about it I think is the way it links around the back of the Newmarket shops to the station. It provides a bit of depth to newmarket and much needed plazas and shelter from the noise and pollution of cars along broadway. I think this is my new favourite development.

There is a wee map on Mr Kiwifruits post up there of the area it will cover represented in orange. I know thats only indicative but it still a massive development.

Do we know if it will take out the Burger King building on the left or the ugly grey ones on the right of mr KF's "now" picture.??

The other exciting thing is that the trains in Auckland are becoming more of an underground. ITs a bit of a silly thing i know, its only a few places,... but the work at new Lynn, Manukau station, Grafton station, and here really represent a general tidying up of the rail network in Auckland.

The battle for patronage on the trains in Auckland is heavily influenced by the perception of trains. I used to walk past that spot at 88 broadway and see the tracks below with all the graffiti and overgrown weeds and the general vomittability of the spot , .... and it definitely gave the perception of trains being a rough, and disgusting way to travel.

I hope there are more opportunities in the future to cover over parts of the network, or underground parts of them. A lot of the positive perception of trains overseas is simply because you cant see the tracks, and only see the grand, imposing stations.

Not too keen on this.... What if you want to put 4 tracks through Newmarket - britomart or 3 to 4 tracks under Broadway? We need future proofing people!!!!

Not too keen on this.... What if you want to put 4 tracks through Newmarket - britomart or 3 to 4 tracks under Broadway? We need future proofing people!!!!

I think its OK. From what I understand Newmarket station will have to be rebuilt if you want to put in a fourth track there, so it probably wont happen..

and the long term plan would be for a cbd loop from britomart to Mt eden. So southern trains would come in past NEwmarket and down to Parnell, and western line trains would go past kingsland and then turn into the cbd loop to a Mt eden station, then to midtown and Britomart station that way, so the stretch of track between newmarket and Mt Eden will probably be much quieter in the long run. An airport line might go that way or maybe the Onehunga branch but it probably wont be as busy as having all the western line trains going down it like it does now.

Not too keen on this.... What if you want to put 4 tracks through Newmarket - britomart or 3 to 4 tracks under Broadway? We need future proofing people!!!!

To expand the route between Park Rd and Newmarket and hence through this development is pretty unfeasible. Two tracks already encompasses the entire rail corridor, to go any wider would require large land purchases which would be extremely expensive. I think future rail expansion will come through the CBD loop, express trains from the west can go via the CBD loop whilst express trains from the South won't need to go under this building.

Do we know if it will take out the Burger King building on the left or the ugly grey ones on the right of mr KF's "now" picture.??

This development will include 86 Broadway which is the area above the tracks and 88 the buildings to the right on the tracks.

http://i446.photobucket.com/albums/qq186/fusion234/Picture1-10.png

From 22nd of June ACC `minutes (http://www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/council/members/committeemeetings/city/20090709_0930/CDC-09072009-OPN-AGD-%2317.pdf)

"Equinox Group is proposing a development at 88 Broadway above the triangle at the northern end of Newmarket, where the north, south and western rail tracks converge. While a resource consent application has not yet been lodged, the developer has met with the Urban Design Panel on a number of occasions. The current proposal is to build a platform six metres above the rail tracks to provide for retail, office, residential and car parking space."

"The proposed station development (Newmarket train station) involves a large glass and steel framed concourse structure adjacent to a station square, two island platforms serving three tracks and the potential for a further glass/steel framed structure at the northern end of the platform which would connect through a commercial development to Broadway. An air-bridge will connect the main concourse/Station Square through to the current access point from Remuera Road. "

So it sounds like if this goes ahead it will be linked into the Newmarket station which would mean that there will be 3 entrances to the station, c.f. the previous 1 entrance off Remuera Rd.

That will be a fantastically interesting development if/when it goes ahead.

Regarding 4 tracks through Newmarket - not sure if it's really ever going to be a viable option. Duplicating the Parnell tunnel would be really expensive, while some pressure should be taken off the Parnell-Britomart stretch of railway when the CBD rail tunnel is built.

Yes I realise its expensive but so is building endless motorways!!!

I truly believe that britomart-newmarket should be 4 tracks, and the tracks after the tunnle on the northern side should be burried and a train station build above it.

Four tracking is needed when you have trains running different stopping patterns. If you look at metro systems they get away with shifting huge numbers of people on two-tracks, because all the trains stop at all stations. Also because each line is run quite independently.

I guess that in the future there might be a push to run more Western Line express trains, which would encourage the four-tracking of the Western Line. Or, more realistically, more express Southern Line trains. But then we need to figure out how to four-track between Newmarket and Westfield. No easy task either.

:) ^^. Piece of cake. There's that 18 metre wide swath of asphalt beside the current southern line just waiting for rail lines to laid along it! :nuts:

On a more serious note, what about trenching the current southern line, with 2 lines below ground and the other 2 at surface?

:) ^^. Piece of cake. There's that 18 metre wide swath of asphalt beside the current southern line just waiting for rail lines to laid along it! :nuts:

On a more serious note, what about trenching the current southern line, with 2 lines below ground and the other 2 at surface?


:-) I like how you think!

:)

On a more serious note, what about trenching the current southern line, with 2 lines below ground and the other 2 at surface?

If you were going to go to all the expense of putting two lines under the ground then you might as well put them somewhere new. I dont think things need to be 4 tracked in the same place.

Instead of putting the tracks under the current southern line, why not under Remuera rd?

I think Auckland should have more of a metro. Just simple lines that run back and forward or around and around all day. Just two lines in each place is fine.

If you were going to go to all the expense of putting two lines under the ground then you might as well put them somewhere new. I dont think things need to be 4 tracked in the same place.

Instead of putting the tracks under the current southern line, why not under Remuera rd?

I think Auckland should have more of a metro. Just simple lines that run back and forward or around and around all day. Just two lines in each place is fine.

Metros carrying many more passengers than Auckland's network make do with 2 lines. However, I would see the advantage of 3 lines to allow the operation of freight trains during the day and/or express trains in the morning/afterrnoon peak.

We won't see much movement on the breweries site until they have moved to their new site - due to be completed next year, current timelines suggest late next year or 2011 for a development start.

"Redevelopment of the Lion Breweries site is currently being master planned by the United Kingdom firm of Farrells. Meetings are being held between representatives from Farrells and Auckland City Council staff to ensure that Auckland City’s desired outcomes for the site are taken into account in the master planning process."

http://i446.photobucket.com/albums/qq186/fusion234/Picture1-14.png

"Terry Farrell bags first New Zealand job
4 August, 2008 | By Richard Waite

Farrells has seen off the likes of Frank Gehry and Foster + Partners to land a major masterplanning project in Auckland, New Zealand.
The scheme, which marks the practice’s debut in the country, will see the 5.2ha central Newmarket area of the city redeveloped into a ‘large-scale, mixed-use’ quarter over the next decade.

Backed by AMP Capital Investors, the project aims to reintegrate a former industrial site into the local context and includes plans for a new railway station and transport interchanges as well as offices, bars, housing and a hotel.

Practice founder Terry Farrell said: ‘This exciting new city-centre development for Newmarket not only creates new high-quality public realm but will also act as a catalyst for high quality future growth to the lands adjacent to the site, furthering Auckland’s reputation as a world-class city.'

Global giants Gensler and SOM had also been shortlisted in the contest to design the masterplan which Farrells hopes to unveil next year (2009)."

The site as it stands
http://www.architectsjournal.co.uk/pictures/550x400fitpad%5B150%5D/3/2/5/40325_23-1788356.jpg

Current planning underway (http://www.terryfarrell.co.uk/#/project/0606/)
http://i446.photobucket.com/albums/qq186/fusion234/Picture2-6.png

Thousands of carparks, now isn't that great news!!:bash:

Arabian money recharges project

4:00AM Tuesday Dec 02, 2008

A United Arab Emirates investor has bought into one of the country's largest development sites for $126 million.

In one of the top-three foreign investment deals so far this year, the Government's Overseas Investment Office said the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority was cleared to buy a half-stake in the Lion Breweries development in Newmarket.

Zoltan Moricz of real estate consultancy CB Richard Ellis said the sale was the single biggest property deal in New Zealand this year.

The AMP Private Equity Real Estate Fund II, specially formed to transform the 5.2ha Newmarket site from a brewery into a new mini-village, got Government clearance to sell half its shares in the project to Haumi Development Partnership, 100 per cent owned by UAE interests.

The AMP fund, 27 per cent Australian-owned, is a special-purpose vehicle established by AMP Capital Investors which last July said it would bring a $1 billion project to Newmarket and develop dozens of shops, hundreds of apartments, thousands of carparks, large offices and maybe even a high-rise retirement village in the next few years.

But since then, AMP has struck big financial problems.

In August, AMP suspended redemptions and would not accept new applications for its unlisted Capital NZ Property Fund, a move being taken "in the best long-term interests of investors".

Lion has long planned to leave the Newmarket site and it is already spending $250 million developing new buildings at 55 Ormiston Rd in South Auckland.

Cameron Brewer, general manager of the Newmarket Business Association, welcomed the Arab investment but questioned who would control the development.

The Government authority said AMP's existing team would run the project "in substantially the same way in which the business had been conducted to date".

The $126 million Arab deal was in the top-three applications from foreigners this year: the $777 million deal for Cheung Kong Infrastructure Holdings and Hong Kong Electric Holdings purchase of Vector Wellington Electricity Network and the failed $106 million deal for Crescent Capital Partners to buy Abano Healthcare Group for $106.7 million.

The authority said the asset value was $172.8 million but the net investment by the Arab business was $126 million.

The authority said AMP needed the money to develop the project.

"In order to obtain new funds to explore alternatives and develop the property, the vendor wishes to sell 50 per cent of the issued share capital," the authority said.

Mr Brewer said the investment was welcome and meant the huge project could move forward with confidence.

"We trust they are just as committed to a high quality mixed-used development as AMP Capital Investors are. This is one of the biggest single sites left in the central city and given it borders upmarket Newmarket, quality is key.

"In the end we don't care so much who the owners may be. We're more interested in ensuring Newmarket gets a world-class outcome everyone can be proud of," he said.

The Arab entity told the Government authority it was keen to further its interests here.

"Abu Dhabi Investment Authority is interested in continuing to participate in real estate development projects and has evaluated the investment in New Zealand taking into account several factors. Its intention is to gain investment exposure to the New Zealand property market in order to create a diversified property portfolio which will complement other investments made in the real estate market in other countries," the authority said.

The Arab business already has a stake in another AMP business.

In January, the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority bought 19.9 per cent of the listed AMP NZ Office Trust and struck a $178.2 million deal with AMP Capital Investors.

LION BREWERIES SITE

* $1 billion shop and apartment project planned
* Development by Australian insurance giant AMP
* Financial problems sparked AMP to sell
* Now, Arab interests have bought a half stake

Lion Breweries site and timeline.


http://i446.photobucket.com/albums/qq186/fusion234/Picture1-2.png

http://i446.photobucket.com/albums/qq186/fusion234/Picture2-7.png

"[B]Farrells has seen off the likes of Frank Gehry and Foster + Partners to land a major masterplanning project in Auckland, New Zealand.

Big mistake and very, very sad :ohno:

Thanks for all the info Drosophila :)

Why is that a big mistake?

Why is that a big mistake?

It would have been great to have something in the city from a starchitect ... they didn't make it and were booted out. Farrell's is not a "name brand" associated with the likes of Gehry, Foster, Rogers, Hadid, Nouvel, Ito etc. who are all starchitects and stir up a lot of media hype .... all good for a small city such as Auckland just as it was for cities like Bilbao.

Just had a look at some of the stuff from Terry Farrell & Partners, I was quite impressed and I'm sure they will do us proud. BUT then I had a look at what Frank Gehry and Foster + Partners had done and boy are we missing a big opportunity, these guys are the the worlds premier architects responsible for the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao and the New World Trade Centre in New York.

Frank Gehry and Foster + Partners.... are the the worlds premier architects responsible for the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao and the New World Trade Centre in New York.

thank god for the internet

^^ no thank Al Gore.

Big mistake and very, very sad :ohno:

Thanks for all the info Drosophila :)

No problem :-) I actually thought the same when I saw Frank Gehry didn't win. But then again how many urban renewal projects has he done? He has certainly designed a lot of stunning buildings but a while district? Maybe he can design a few buildings to throw into the mix. I'd like him involved with the Queen's Wharf building, that's where we need a Frank Gehry not tucked away on Khyber Pass!

Lumsden Green Upgrade from above
(image from Wikimedia commons - taken in Dec 08)

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/76/Lumsden_Green_Construction_Site%27s_Hole.jpg/800px-Lumsden_Green_Construction_Site%27s_Hole.jpg (http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Lumsden_Green_Construction_Site%27s_Hole.jpg)

Newmarket 1950 (Wikimedia commons)


http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/8c/Newmarket_Auckland_Around_1950.jpg (http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Newmarket_Auckland_Around_1950.jpg)

http://i446.photobucket.com/albums/qq186/fusion234/Picture1-20.png

Plans
http://www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/council/projects/lumsden/images/plan.jpg
http://www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/council/projects/lumsden/images/park.jpg

Ooh - wasn't aware of this one. An open green space should be great in the middle of Newmarket (or, was it already grass and this is just an improvement?).

With the recent street upgrade, the new station, and additions like this, the place is really coming along nicely, isn't it.

Just an upgrade, it's always been there. This is a before.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/83/256267551_81c6cfe71d.jpg

How does pedestrian access to the railway station (Northern Concourse) off Broadway fit into the 88 development? Will it be via those two escalators on the corner of the frontage?

So it sounds like if this goes ahead it will be linked into the Newmarket station which would mean that there will be 3 entrances to the station, c.f. the previous 1 entrance off Remuera Rd.

If you look at the image below of Newmarket Station, you'll see the proposed Northern Concourse in the distance. It's basically a second version of the Southern Concourse currently under construction next to Station Square.

http://transportblog.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/newmarket-stn2.jpg

Until we have better renders of the 88 Broadway it will be unclear how it fits in. My impression is that 88 Broadway will be like a large mall/apartment complex that will link into the station at its rear. It will be built over the area where the tracks coming from Central, South and West cross.

Plans
http://www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/council/projects/lumsden/images/plan.jpg

They should get rid of davis cresent and turn it into a public space, its only there for the sake of 6 carparks.

They should get rid of davis cresent and turn it into a public space, its only there for the sake of 6 carparks.

Or just get rid of it totally. I am sure they considered it but probably the bar owner complained it would reduce business and seeing as the councillors probably don't care either way they just go with what is easiest.

^^ If that is the case then the bar owner is a numpty, what would actually lead to more patronage? 6 car parks out the front of your business or 6 tables out the front of your business?

Tell me about it! Pedestrianise that bitch!

^^ If that is the case then the bar owner is a numpty, what would actually lead to more patronage? 6 car parks out the front of your business or 6 tables out the front of your business?

I completely agree but the same thing happened with Queen Street when they planned to remove all parking spaces - there was an outcry. That's why there still are carparks on Queen Street. We have to accept it as a slow process, maybe they've reduced the parks to 4 and in 10 years 2 and then in 20 years it will be pedestrianised. Who knows. Same goes for Broadway, the carparks should be removed its entire stretch and replaced with wider footpaths and one lane in each direction should really be a buslane.

It would be good if they made that park pedestrian friendly. I always felt being there was kind of like being stranded on a traffic island - busy streets on three sides and a carpark building behind you.

http://www.virtualoceania.net/newzealand/photos/wallpaper/800x600/nz1031.jpg (http://www.virtualoceania.net/newzealand/photos/cities/auckland/suburbs/nz1031.shtml)

http://www.virtualoceania.net/newzealand/photos/cities/auckland/suburbs/nz1031.shtml

how is the new New Market Viaduct coming along? When Driving over New Market on the old one there is nothing to see as they have put up barriers to stop people like me wanting to look.

Checkout www.aucklandmotorways.co.nz i believe they have cast the first segment and its going alone nicely. Southbound should be finished in 12 - 14 months.

The boarding has been taken down so grabbed a few snaps on the phone:

http://i756.photobucket.com/albums/xx207/MonsieurRenardo/photo-1.jpg?t=1260677989

http://i756.photobucket.com/albums/xx207/MonsieurRenardo/photo.jpg?t=1260678033

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2803/4179973389_374ae75edc_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2734/4180735114_eac7c3778d_o.jpg

ld brewery revamp slow to take shape
By Anne Gibson
4:00 AM Wednesday Feb 24, 2010
Facebook
Twitter
Email
Print

The Lion Brewery site in Newmarket is to be redeveloped. Photo / Brett Phibbs
Big plans to transform Newmarket's southern end from a brewery site into mixed-use have been slow to emerge.

Conor Collier of AMP Capital Investors, which owns the 5ha Lion Nathan site, said last week that plans for the site were not yet finished.

But he hoped an application would be lodged in about two months.

In 2007, AMP paid $162 million for the block on the corner of Khyber Pass and Park Rds and dozens of shops, hundreds of apartments, thousands of carparks and large offices were expected to rise on the site. A retirement village and a hub of bars and restaurants were planned.

Collier said the plans were taking longer than expected.

"We are continuing with business-as-usual activities to develop the site and now expect to lodge the private plan change application to rezone the site around April.

"This is progressing on a longer time frame than originally planned, which we believe is prudent given current market conditions."

Cameron Brewer, chief executive of the Newmarket Business Association, was disappointed at AMP's pace.


"Amongst other things the plan change was going to rezone [four] existing business areas such as the Lion brewery site to mixed use.

"Until this plan change is ratified, that will also allow for some taller commercial buildings, a lot of development in Newmarket remains suspended," Brewer said.

I took a slash in the loo in the new Newmarket Station after the lantern festival the other weekend. It was a rather gratifying experience.

Osborne Street Before

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2803/4426118401_8d6177d3b8_o.jpg

At present

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4021/4430162595_c35d3c1a9e_o.jpg

Before

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4051/4426881860_5042ca8fde_o.jpg

At Present

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4013/4430168107_eb0350174c_o.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4038/4426789420_2342dc4c99_o.jpg

Before

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4047/4426881190_f7388b215f_o.jpg

Now

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4067/4426886602_c7d844effb_o.jpg

^^ wow. i've never seen that row of brick buildings. pretty. and as ever your photographs are gorgeous and sooo appreciated.

kiwifruit you wouldn't happen to have any photographs of the new plaza between broadway and the train station would you? i didn't get to see that area. i drove down broadway looking for the corridor through to the station twice (on a dark night mind you) and could not find it. i have read all about how this is an issue that will be sorted in the future, but for now i would be interested to see what the entrance from broadway looks like..

i am going up to AKL tomorrow so might drive home via remuera rd instead of SH1 all the way and try my luck once again.

perhaps off-topic here but i am really excited about tomorrow actually. it'll be a quintessentially "auckland" day for me in a sense.

- Pasifika festival in the morning/early afternoon
- Dragon boating at Lake Pupuke (N.Shore) in the arvo
- Lady Gaga @ The Vector in the evening

days like these make me wonder how people (unlike myself) living south of the bombays (like myself) can criticise auckland for lacking in lifestyle. what a joke - could you ask for anything more from your saturday?

Osborne Street
At Present

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4038/4426789420_2342dc4c99_o.jpg




Fantastic they've really turned a boring thoroughfare into a great little bar and cafe street - the paving hasn't even been laid and people are already out there enjoying it. So much of Auckland really could be transformed if on-street parking was replaced with widened footpaths and planting. Considering the number of new carparks being built inside new buildings, this is something council should be looking to do more often.

^^

I have updated before and after pics of Osborne street in my posting further up.

^^ wow. i've never seen that row of brick buildings. pretty. and as ever your photographs are gorgeous and sooo appreciated.

kiwifruit you wouldn't happen to have any photographs of the new plaza between broadway and the train station would you?

Thank you badbehaviour. Here is the Broadway connection to Station Square. It is quite obscure and needs a lot of work. I don't think it is finished as yet.

Keep a lookout for the the red awning (and witches hat) on the LHS (directly opposite Tweed street) as you approach Remueura Road. There is a sign, but it can only be seen from the pavement - there is no sign facing the road.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4006/4430185091_66f353b18c_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2491/4430184361_fce198da47_o.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4032/4430185547_04e28fd9b8_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2597/4430186333_1c5f618ed0_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2776/4430185915_2ce467780a_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2803/4430954892_f7fc5c1c8f_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2722/4430954636_ff6234c4c9_o.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4005/4430187003_4521b16ccf_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2796/4430187303_69e664e19e_o.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4016/4430187649_cc0cb02f6d_o.jpg


Fantastic they've really turned a boring thoroughfare into a great little bar and cafe street - the paving hasn't even been laid and people are already out there enjoying it. So much of Auckland really could be transformed if on-street parking was replaced with widened footpaths and planting. Considering the number of new carparks being built inside new buildings, this is something council should be looking to do more often.

I totally agree - let them start with High Street please. :)

thanks again KF!
it is an amazingly obscure pedestrian link based on those pics - i feel better about not having been able to find it. will be great when it is changed.
otherwise, beautiful station and surrounds.

thanks again KF!
it is an amazingly obscure pedestrian link based on those pics - i feel better about not having been able to find it. will be great when it is changed.
otherwise, beautiful station and surrounds.

Yeah I paid a visit recently and it really is a barren wasteland of a public square. The shops around it are either empty or fairly tacky, the surrounding architecture is equally awful and the landscaping is non-existent. Great for skateboarders though.

^^

It is probably one of the most mindless pieces of design we have come across in Auckland. Shabby shabby shabby. The developers should be forced to set up their offices in one of the many ratholes they have created.

IMO to rectify this abysmal mess:

Decrease the number of shops to a fifth of what is there. Get an anchor tenant like new world metro, or 4 square to open a decent convenience store that people will use on the way home. Get 4 other decent tenants - one of them been a coffee shop that could take the form of number 1 queen street in the middle of the square. There is so much potential there, but all it is, is an eyesore, and one cannot get out of there quick enough - a huge letdown after getting off the train in a really nice station.

^^

It is probably one of the most mindless pieces of design we have come across in Auckland. Shabby shabby shabby. The developers should be forced to set up their offices in one of the many ratholes they have created.

IMO to rectify this abysmal mess:

Decrease the number of shops to a fifth of what is there. Get an anchor tenant like new world metro, or 4 square to open a decent convenience store that people will use on the way home. Get 4 other decent tenants - one of them been a coffee shop that could take the form of number 1 queen street in the middle of the square. There is so much potential there, but all it is, is an eyesore, and one cannot get out of there quick enough - a huge letdown after getting off the train in a really nice station.

I can't help but agree. I went into the station at Remuera road, took a walk around and was impressed, then I came out of the entrance into the public square. Oh dear. It's such a shame because squares like that can really work well, but this square hasn't worked yet. I agree with your ideas regarding a good anchor tenant in the area. Given that there are apartments galore there, I'd imagine a New World Metro would go down a treat!

IMO to rectify this abysmal mess:

Yeah a large convenience store would be great, eg. Eden Foods is a lot nicer than the 4 Squares that it has been replacing around town.

But regardless of what you do, it's gonna be lipstick on a pig - the surrounding architecture is just atrocious design and will likely never be fixed. In their quest for intensification, they really missed the boat on the apartment block that now walls out Nuffield. A real shame.

^^

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4006/4430185091_66f353b18c_o.jpg

Auckland City Council owns the two buildings to the left of the entrance, they were pruchased for the aim of being demolished and opening up the square to the street. I am guessing this has been put on hold as ACC has pretty much frozen all activities until the the Super City comes into effect.

Once this happens I am sure the square will become more popular, but I agree a New World Metro that people could grab something from on the way home would be great, otherwise from what I have seen it's a slightly underwhelming square but has potential.


I totally agree - let them start with High Street please. :)

Totaly if they just removed the on-street parking on High street it would already be 100x better. As it is, it's a real wasted opportunity for a great pedestrian street.

It looked better before with a lot of trees...

A few Newmarket before and afters

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2633/3754038287_b81f82228c_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/3754038287/)

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3439/3754838844_e620b066ac_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/3754838844/)

I disagree.

Plus you will have a bit more trees when those saplings mature.

I disagree.

Plus you will have a bit more trees when those saplings mature.


Why do you want to replace healthy mature trees with saplings?? :nuts:

Why do you want to replace healthy mature trees with saplings?? :nuts:

While the new furniture is much better, I agree that it's a shame that more of the older trees couldn't have been retained. It makes for a fairly barren and sterile look for a long time until the sapling matures (if it gets that far).

Maybe it's just an Auckland thing - the Queen St tree massacre springs to mind (now replaced with expensive, diseased and dying palms - cabbage trees?).

While the new furniture is much better, I agree that it's a shame that more of the older trees couldn't have been retained. It makes for a fairly barren and sterile look for a long time until the sapling matures (if it gets that far).

Maybe it's just an Auckland thing - the Queen St tree massacre springs to mind (now replaced with expensive, diseased and dying palms - cabbage trees?).

They were Nikau Palms and they replaced what were pretty mangy trees to begin with.

Good things take time

They were Nikau Palms and they replaced what were pretty mangy trees to begin with.

Except they weren't that mangy - they were leafy, yes. Some were a bit sickly, yes, but the same arborelaist commissioned to assess them was also the supplier of the replacement nikaus - hmmmmm. And that's what caused the uproar - mostly perfectly healthy, leafy trees were being replaced by very expensive, unsuitable species. If the old ones were mangy, I hate to think how you'd describe the current crop, which, surprise, surprise, are not thriving (quite the opposite).

The Newmarket example is just a repeat, thought at least they kept one. A bit of decent landscaping, some new paving stones and you'd have a nice, leafy respite at a very busy intersection. But alas :ohno: I wonder if it had something to do with the road realignment, though. Perhaps those trees were in the way of sight lines. Though you'd think all of them would be removed and none planted if that was the case.

Newmarket isn't particularly pleasant for pedestrians, because Broadway is so noisy & busy.

This upgrade to Khyber/Broadway corner actually seems to welcome in the traffic instead of doing the opposite.

It feels cold. Like many other recently upgraded streets. Bluestone is just not a friendly material.

Stylish? Maybe in a Milan-esque sort of way, which I guess is appropriate for Newmarket.
I do like the artwork (and enjoy giving it a spin when I walk past).

http://media.nzherald.co.nz/nzhgfx/themes/0/images/nzheraldlogo.gif
By James Ihaka
4:00 AM Monday Jun 28, 2010

Historic cannon 'dumped'

http://media.nzherald.co.nz/webcontent/image/jpg/270610NZHPECANON3_220x147.jpg


Newmarket residents are miffed that a historic 125-year-old cannon has been "dumped and forgotten" while the Auckland City Council has approved $120,000 for a book on its own history.

Joan Morrow, who was secretary at the Newmarket RSA before it closed three years ago, is disappointed the cannon has been left "completely out of sight" at Olympic Green, having previously stood at Lumsden Green.

She said old soldiers had approached her wondering what had happened to the seven-tonne cannon, which dates back to 1885 and was part of fortifications overlooking the Waitemata Harbour to defend against a feared Russian invasion.

"It's just been dumped up there and left out of sight. It's ridiculous because it is such an important part of our history," said Mrs Morrow. "We want it mounted and with a plaque in front so that people can have the pleasure of seeing it and understanding it."

Her calls have been supported by Newmarket Business Association chief executive Cameron Brewer, who said that if the Auckland City Council had $120,000 for a book on its modern history, it should also find the money to honour a rare piece of the city's military history.

"Everyone from council seems to be now ducking for cover," he said. "This is a national treasure. We agreed to the council relocating it to nearby Olympic Reserve, but we didn't anticipate that they would do a dump-and-dash."

The cannon was moved from its original site to Lumsden Green in 1911 but buried during World War II. It was unearthed in 1968 and placed on a traffic island on Broadway, but this proved to be a hazard so it was moved back to Lumsden Green.

The cannon became the Auckland City Council's responsibility when the Newmarket Borough became part of the enlarged city in 1989.

"It could be a nice paragraph in their new book, about how the city council inherited some great treasures from the old borough councils and did the right thing," said Mr Brewer.

Hobson ward city councillor Aaron Bhatnagar said he would check with the council today.

"I would agree that if the cannon is not being respected then we should ... if we are going to remember our military history we need to do it properly."

The council should place the canon where it belongs back at North Head, Mt Victoria or Stoney Batter.

http://media.nzherald.co.nz/nzhgfx/themes/0/images/nzheraldlogo.gif
By James Ihaka
4:00 AM Thursday Jul 1, 2010

Cannon to make a comeback

http://media.nzherald.co.nz/webcontent/image/jpg/JoanMorrow_460x230.jpg

A 125-year-old gun languishing in Newmarket is to be remounted, allaying earlier concerns that it had been dumped and forgotten.

The muzzle-loaded gun, part of a defence arsenal against a perceived Russian threat in the late 19th century, was moved to the nearby Olympic Green as part of a recently-completed $2 million redevelopment of Lumsden Green.

The move surprised some in the community who believed a piece of their history, which had been a part of Lumsden Green for decades, had been dumped and forgotten.

But Hobson councillor and Auckland City Council city development committee chairman Aaron Bhatnagar said work had begun on replacing its rotting wooden carriage to restore the old gun.

"The good news is we've started building the carriage and once that is finished the cannon will be topped on it at the reserve," he said.

Mr Bhatnagar did not know when the new carriage would be completed. He also said there were no plans at this stage to include a plaque describing the gun's history.

"But I'm sure that can be easily done and if they haven't budgeted for it as a part of the project I'll be the first to sponsor it at the Hobson community board," he said.

Former Newmarket RSA secretary Joan Morrow, who was initially outraged at the move, said the restoration was "a victory for the preservation of local heritage".

"It's welcome news for us, for sure ... the old soldiers are happy about it," she said.

"I've had a few phone calls and people are certainly looking forward to its completion."

The gun was moved from its original site to Lumsden Green in 1911 but was buried during World War II.

It was unearthed in 1968 and placed on a traffic island on Broadway, but this proved to be a hazard so it was moved back to Lumsden Green.

It became the Auckland City Council's responsibility when the Newmarket borough became part of the enlarged city 21 years ago.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4142/4803984544_a31e2992ac_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/4803984544/)

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4122/4804018296_f73e294586_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/4804018296/)

For f**ks sake why didnt they make this tiny street only for pedestrians?

^^

:) Thats the exact question we asked ourselves today

For f**ks sake why didnt they make this tiny street only for pedestrians?

This has been in the planning stage for quite a few years now so if planned today probably would be pedestrianised - it's still a great little side-street shopping precinct. I hope this spreads out into the surrounding backstreets behind Newmarket.

^^ Thanks for the pics Mr KF, will have to go for a wander and have a nosy, what a transformation for that area. I love the pods!

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4122/4804018296_f73e294586_o.jpg

Looks like the Carlton Hotel is renovating its modern addition. Any renders anywhere?

Everything in Newmarket is ticking along. Cameron Brewer for mayor!!!

Just got confirmation that the Dominion Motors Building is getting bulldozed. Ah well, progress for Newmarket :|

Grand building with colourful past seeks new owner and new direction...

By Bayleys
456 views

http://www.infonews.co.nz/photos/600-211.jpg

AUCKLAND CITY

A striking Auckland architectural landmark on the corner of Broadway and Khyber Pass Road - which cost a total of £4700 when it was built in 1887 - is up for tender with Bayleys.

Marketed by Clint Barber and Ed Donald of Bayleys, 489 Khyber Pass Road is better known as The Carlton and comprises a well-maintained standalone two level retail/hospitality complex of approximately 705sq m on a 531sq m site (more or less).
“This is a grand old building that lends itself to refurbishment and a new identity. A savvy investor with a desire to hold property in Newmarket will see the potential the property offers and appreciate the significance of owning a piece of Auckland history in such a strategic location,” says Barber.

As licensed premises, the building has undergone at least four name changes since its original construction in 1887. Designed by noted architectural firm Edward Mahoney & Son and constructed by prolific local builder William Edgerley, the hotel was first known as The Jubilee Hotel, in a nod to Queen Victoria’s 50th Jubilee that year. It was instigated by successful small brewer William J Suiter - the first Mayor of Newmarket Borough - and his brewery company.

The property currently houses the Carlton Bar with the existing lease on the building to Carlton Bar and Brasserie (1994) Ltd, expiring on 21 October 2010 and an annual guaranteed rent of $300,975.39 including gst.

“The appeal for a confident investor is that the property has a year’s holding income allowing time for new plans and ideas to be consolidated and then pursued through the usual channels,” says Barber.

“The real potential for this property lies in converting it into a multi-tenancy to capitalise on the location and the boutique space that the building offers. Given the corner position it occupies, the property benefits from exposure to both Broadway and Khyber Pass Road with significant traffic flows at this junction.”

The Carlton Hotel is opposite the five hectare former Lion Nathan NZ site in Khyber Pass Road which was bought by Australian insurance firm AMP who are said to be planning to develop a high-density apartment, shopping and retirement precinct on the land.

Based on architectural plans provided, net lettable areas provide ground level space of 401.3sq m with a courtyard of a further 61.8sq m. On the first floor there is a total of 182.7sq m and a mezzanine balcony offering 20sq m.

“The ground floor enjoys excellent exposure to both Broadway and Khyber Pass Road and the first floor has its own entrance direct to Broadway. A recent annex at the rear of the property - which currently houses the gaming machines for the Carlton bar – fronts on to Osborne Street,” explains Barber.

“As part of the wider Newmarket revitalisation programme, the Council is upgrading Osborne Street to include wider footpaths, trees and street furniture. It would perhaps be feasible to open up the back of the building and have a smart cafe offering al fresco dining to take advantage of this.” (upgrade seems to be happening right now)

This is a progressive part of Newmarket, with the former Hayes Metal Refinery on Osborne Street currently being fitted out with boutique stores with several expected to be open in spring. Many established brands are confirmed to move in to these premises along with a number of new businesses to Newmarket.
The property is zoned Business 3 under the Auckland District Plan Isthmus Section Operative 1999 and is subject to a proposed plan modification under the Newmarket Centre Plan which allows for a wide range of permitted uses.

Further notes of interest:
Tenders close 10 September.
Architectural firm Edward Mahoney & Son won a competition for the design of Auckland’s Customhouse (1888) - now home to Galleria in central Auckland - and also designed the Elliot Street facade of Smith and Caughey (1910) and the Wrights Building (1911).

The Newmarket Borough Council proposed that a statue of the Queen should be erected on top of the front corner of the hotel in preparation for Jubilee celebrations; however, this was later changed to erecting a town clock instead.

At one stage, there were 18 breweries in Khyber Pass Road.

Just got confirmation that the Dominion Motors Building is getting bulldozed. Ah well, progress for Newmarket :|

Do you know when?

Just got confirmation that the Dominion Motors Building is getting bulldozed. Ah well, progress for Newmarket :|
Westfield have a lot to answer for.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4101/4944172143_7c7127c964_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/4944172143/)
227 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/4944172143/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4079/4944757444_a788e6c767_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/4944757444/)
227 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/4944757444/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4097/4944757846_37edaccc2c_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/4944757846/)
227 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/4944757846/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4123/4944760088_f44c780be0_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/4944760088/)
227 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/4944760088/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4081/4944760436_c0f66e72d9_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/4944760436/)
227 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/4944760436/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4075/4944760832_870434afe1_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/4944760832/)
227 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/4944760832/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4122/4944176465_5f2622e5d8_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/4944176465/)
227 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/4944176465/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

I think that alley could be turned into a pretty interesting little pedestrian street, certainly better than the monstrous mall that Westfield plan to build.

I think that alley could be turned into a pretty interesting little pedestrian street, certainly better than the monstrous mall that Westfield plan to build.

You haven't even seen the plans. I have, and while I am biased, I think they look awesome. It's not going to be a St Lukes, or even a Westfield Albany.

Not every potentially interesting street needs to be "saved". I love Osbourne and Teed Street, but not all Newmarket needs to look like that.

What do you think of Nuffield Street, by the way?

No, not every street needs to be saved, however, we should respect our outdoor spaces. We don't need to sanitise, box, homogenise and hermetically seal everything for it to be successful. One reason I prefer Botany Town Centre (not the annoying outlet mall area) to Sylvia Park is because of the indoor-outdoor nature of the shopping centre. Though Sylvia Park tried this, I feel Botany carried it off much better. Whilst both designs are not ultimately to my taste, I still end up going to Botany more often than Sylvia Park for this reason.

No, not every street needs to be saved, however, we should respect our outdoor spaces. We don't need to sanitise, box, homogenise and hermetically seal everything for it to be successful. One reason I prefer Botany Town Centre (not the annoying outlet mall area) to Sylvia Park is because of the indoor-outdoor nature of the shopping centre. Though Sylvia Park tried this, I feel Botany carried it off much better. Whilst both designs are not ultimately to my taste, I still end up going to Botany more often than Sylvia Park for this reason.

Well, there are some aspects to the Westfield proposal you will like (lots of natural light with skylights and multi-level window sections). And some public balcony areas may be included, though that's still to be seen. There's also some cafe seating proposed along a much widened Mortimer Pass footpath, and the skybridge will offer a nice openness walking between the two buildings. Not exactly the indoor/outdoor feel that you were talking about, but then it's the centre of Newmarket. For good investment, you almost have to build vertically (and I love that it's supposed to be a 3D centre, not essentially a "2D" one like Albany). It's not a village anymore, and space is getting scarce. Which is, I guess, one of the reasons Westfield weren't keen to integrate the old lane into the development.

http://media.nzherald.co.nz/nzhgfx/themes/0/images/nzheraldlogo.gif (http://www.nzherald.co.nz/property/news/article.cfm?c_id=8&objectid=10677539)
By Anne Gibson
5:30 AM Saturday Oct 2, 2010

http://media.nzherald.co.nz/webcontent/image/jpg/lion_220x14757665.jpg

Lion site 'Newmarket's Soho Square'


AMP Capital Investors' move on Newmarket's Lion Nathan site at the property boom peak and the decision to quit in a recession has left one broker comparing it to Ponsonby's Soho Square site.

Bruce Whillans, principal of Ray White Commercial, said both projects were hatched at the peak of the boom but were now non-income-producing land deals hunting for buyers in a recessionary market. Yet both sites would eventually be developed and would lend themselves to large retail and residential builds.

AMP struck a $162 million deal struck in 2007, paying a $50 million deposit and working on a $1 billion master-planned community, subject to planning approval.

But on Thursday, Lion said it would buy the site back via Great Northern Developments, a joint venture owned by AMP Private Equity Real Estate Fund II, an AMP Capital Investors-managed fund, and Haumi Development Partnership.

AMP said the prolonged financial crisis had a dramatic effect on the economics and value of development land and blocks such as the Khyber Pass site.

Whillans, who has sold commercial property worth more than $1 billion in the past 25 years, said vacant commercial land values had fallen 30 per cent since the peak of the boom but the Newmarket land would not have suffered quite that severely.

"In some areas, it's worse, like bare residential land at Coopers Beach which has dropped more like 60 per cent," he said. "The Great Northern site at 5.2ha is around the same size as Albert Park but it's less affected by those value drops because it's strategically positioned. It's not unlike Soho."

Although the Newmarket site was probably still worth "north of $100 million", it would not be worth anywhere near 2007's $162 million, he said.

Behind-the-scenes work on the Newmarket site meant the project had not been idle for the last three years. AMP wanted to put forward a private plan change and in February, Conor Collier of AMP Capital Investors said plans for the site were not yet finished but he hoped an application would be lodged with the council soon.

"We are continuing with business-as-usual activities to develop the site and now expect to lodge the private plan change application to rezone the site around April. This is progressing on a longer time frame than originally planned, which we believe is prudent given current market conditions," Collier said.

Yesterday, an AMP spokeswoman said the plan change application was never made.

"In terms of settlement, it was due when Lion exited the site. When it became clear that it would not be be possible to secure the funding required to develop the site, a process was commenced with Lion to agree the terms on which the site would be returned," she said.

AMP wanted to re-zone the industrial and commercial site for apartments, a retirement village, shops, carparks and offices.

Whillans said all this planning work could now win big rewards for Lion which might not develop the land but sell it.

One purchaser is examining buying Soho, Whillans said.

"There's no deal on it yet and it's like all these big properties: it's not an easy time. Vacant land is not an easy one to back and you have to have a clear direction to get banking support. Soho will be sold as one property.

http://media.nzherald.co.nz/nzhgfx/themes/0/images/nzheraldlogo.gif (http://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/news/article.cfm?c_id=3&objectid=10677285)
By Christopher Adams
5:30 AM Friday Oct 1, 2010

Lion buys back premium Auckland site

http://media.nzherald.co.nz/webcontent/image/jpg/SCCZEN_A_211107NZHBPLION3_220x147.JPG


Brewing firm Lion Nathan has taken back the 5.2ha Newmarket site it sold to an investment fund three years ago.

The company has acquired Great Northern Developments Limited (GNDL), the firm set up to redevelop the brewery site.

GNDL's sole assets were the Newmarket site, at Khyber Pass, as well as plans for its rezoning and development.

Before Lion Nathan's acquisition, GNDL was owned by the AMP Private Equity Real Estate Fund II (APEREF II) - an AMP Capital Investors-managed fund - and the UAE-owned Haumi Development Partnership.

The original plan was for a $1 billion project transforming the site into a "mini village" with dozens of shops, hundreds of apartments, large offices and even a high-rise retirement village.

Lion Nathan New Zealand managing director Peter Kean said: "Knowing the site well, having operated here since approximately 1860, we are confident that GNDL will be able to attract good investment interest and that ultimately the redevelopment of the site will be accomplished."

He said Lion Nathan would continue to transfer all of its operations to its recently commissioned Manukau site, in Ormiston Rd.

AMP Capital Investors said the strategy for the Newmarket site had been to attract new equity and finance to the project.

But when it became clear it would not be possible to secure the funding required for the development GNDL began a process to return the site to Lion Nathan.

The terms of the transaction have not been disclosed, but AMP Capital NZ Property Fund wrote down its investment in APEREF II to zero in March and expects no further impact.

The sale of the Khyber Pass Road property for $162 million was agreed in 2007 - before the global crisis obliterated credit and investors' appetite for risk.

Lion Nathan had received only a $50 million deposit.

The 2008 annual report of GNDL said a vendor mortgage of $122 million was due on September 26, 2010, and GNDL had total assets of $179 million.

Cameron Brewer, former chief executive of the Newmarket Business Association, said Lion Nathan's acquisition of the site was "great news".

The Newmarket Business Association had expressed a fear that Newmarket could be left with an abandoned site surrounded by graffiti-clad hoarding.

"With Lion Nathan now buying back the site, they will keep it as neat as a pin as they always have."

Bruce Whillans, one of New Zealand's top commercial real estate agents, said the Khyber Pass site's size and location made it one of the most promising for development in Auckland. It would not be used for manufacturing again.

"Newmarket's really moving ahead ... I think developers will take a lead from where AMP were going and create some sort of master plan."

Sohoed; adjective. Meaning: When a development in Auckland collapses leaving a horrible eyesore in a prime location. Usage example: The Lion Breweries site has sohoed.

Sohoed; adjective. Meaning: When a development in Auckland collapses leaving a horrible eyesore in a prime location. Usage example: The Lion Breweries site has sohoed.


Well in Ponsonby we ended up with a giant hole whereas in Newmarket nothing has changed from what has been there for a long long long time.

Well in Ponsonby we ended up with a giant hole whereas in Newmarket nothing has changed from what has been there for a long long long time.
True. My main concern would be the lack of people on site maintaining it. It could end up pretty degraded.

1880s brick Victorian Pub
(also known as "Jubilee Hotel" [1887-88], "Carlton Club Hotel" [1888-1992], "Carlton Tavern & Brasserie" [1992-2005], "The Penny Black" [2005])
Designed by Edward Mahoney & Son, constructed by prolific local builder William Edgerley, and instigated by William J. Suiter (first mayor of Newmarket Borough) and his brewery company

http://www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/dbtw-wpd/heritageimages/images/f62m/1886.jpg

Nood (http://www.nood.co.nz/) has taken the bottom floor of the Carlton Club, cnr. Broadway and Khyber Pass Newmarket. They are still busy with interior and exterior work. The interior has an amazing skylight which was where the courtyard used to be.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4087/5066507003_121c99de7a_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/5066507003/)
Newmarket (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/5066507003/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4104/5066507609_38f18aa95c_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/5066507609/)
Newmarket (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/5066507609/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4148/5067118388_655815490b_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/5067118388/)
Newmarket (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/5067118388/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1112/5113725526_10ba77ea8d_o.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1399/5113726486_de31a5fea5_o.jpg

Glass awning has replaced the old wooden one along this stretch in Broadway - 2degrees have also opened a shop there.

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1420/5113124175_0ea2afd816_b.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1081/5113123341_dd3022990c_o.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4152/5171463560_16301fe62e_o.jpg

^^Eden street car park is missing a few letters lol:bash:

The shops along Osborne Street have all been restructured into smaller units that will all open onto a lane-way at the rear - which in turn will lead onto another lane-way that leads to York Street - It's looks very promising - be sure to check out the York Street Mechanics (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showpost.php?p=93702217&postcount=642) in the retail thread - that leads off one of these lane-ways.....

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8165/7666673372_e311aafbd7_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/7666673372/)
Osborne Lane Newmarket (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/7666673372/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

You can make out the lane-way at the back of the shop

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7272/7666674000_2a9391cd66_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/7666674000/)
Osborne Lane Newmarket (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/7666674000/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

The lane-way itself

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8165/7666676436_46322c0f79_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/7666676436/)
Osborne Lane Newmarket (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/7666676436/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

Just around the corner the lanes all meet here

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8290/7666677880_b8a663f72c_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/7666677880/)
Osborne Lane Newmarket (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/7666677880/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8015/7666674974_e321722c04_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/7666674974/)
Osborne Lane Newmarket (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/7666674974/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7122/7666679194_706521411e_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/7666679194/)
Osborne Lane Newmarket (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/7666679194/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7252/7666680748_d9886df355_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/7666680748/)
Osborne Lane Newmarket (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/7666680748/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7266/7666681536_426d1e689e_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/7666681536/)
Osborne Lane Newmarket (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/7666681536/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

This is looking good and perhaps Sal's is opening a pizzeria around this area as well??? (A new one is to be opened in the coming week, location as of yet unknown... many are speculating it's gonna be Newmarket...) When you happen to be around this area be sure to visit the York St Mechanics mentioned above and the Lucha Lounge...

Building a Better Newmarket (http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/BU1211/S00919/building-a-better-newmarket.htm)

New details have been revealed about two major developments which promise to underpin the economic future of Auckland's second largest retail centre. At an event hosted by the Newmarket Business Association this week, keynote speakers from NZTA and Westfield have provided further insight into plans to develop vacant land beneath the Newmarket Viaduct - and expand the area's retail footprint. Westfield New Zealand Director, Justin Lynch, outlined plans for a proposed new retail development on the historic Dominion Motors/Levene Extreme/Farmers site which borders Mortimer Pass and Broadway. In addition to a proposed flagship 9,500 sqm Department store, 95 new specialty stores are planned, along with a six-screen cinema, gymnasium and 1,400 car additional parking spaces. Mr Lynch says the completed project will "not be your typical shopping mall exterior – you could say it will be have more presence like that of an art gallery" with a striking bronze and glass facade. Subject to planning approvals, and the right market conditions, the multi-million dollar complex could be built within 18 months. "The Westfield Newmarket project will complement, extend and consolidate Newmarket as the pre-eminent retail precinct in New Zealand" says Mr Lynch. Association Chief Executive Ashley Church says "The scale and architectural and aesthetic values of the proposed development are absolutely stunning ", adding that the University of Auckland's move to acquire and redevelop the old Lion Brewery site adds further impetus to Newmarket's future prospects. With the $215m Newmarket Viaduct Replacement project due for completion before Christmas, the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) has also unveiled a draft master plan which provides for a mix of commercial and office space, active retail frontages, car parking buildings and multi-functional open space under the flyover. NZTA Senior Urban Design Advisor, Jacque Bell, says the aim is to create retail and business developments - up to four stories high - that allow for "more progressive land use which would provide a benefit to the Newmarket community." To that end, the NZTA will shortly invite tenders for 99 year leases on the Viaduct land. "What we want to try and get is integrated development appearing in that area. So it will be the best proposal in the best areas that'll actually win that" says NZTA Manager Ritchie Schofield. Despite suggestions that it might have lost its crown, retail sales in Newmarket have grown by 6.5 per cent over the past year and the average transaction value has risen to almost $70, well ahead of Sylvia Park ($50), Ponsonby ($49) and the CBD ($47). Association Chief Executive Ashley Church says "There is a pattern of strong growth taking place covering a variety of different and important economic indicators and these bode extremely well for the future of Newmarket."

^^ I can't wait to see the design :cheers:

^^ I can't wait to see the design :cheers:

+1 ... it sounds promising and I sincerely hope that it doesn't feel like a shopping centre, word about is that it will include a laneway/high street :cheers:

I have seen the design (unless it has changed much in the last year or so) and it is pretty good

I have seen the design (unless it has changed much in the last year or so) and it is pretty good

You need a little camera so that you can take pics surreptitiously and act as a secret agent for us ;)

Sounds good. I work in Newmarket, and that whole area mentioned in the press release is definitely due for some redevelopment, especially with the motorway viaduct replacement project coming to a close next month (finally!).

Sounds good. I work in Newmarket, and that whole area mentioned in the press release is definitely due for some redevelopment, especially with the motorway viaduct replacement project coming to a close next month (finally!).

Good to have you back FH ... you were one of the originals and a mod :) That's before the ex South Africans took over ;)

So half of this project is just going to be 2 parking buildings? Unbelievable :ohno:


https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/405144_341845209246191_349138973_n.jpg

So half of this project is just going to be 2 parking buildings? Unbelievable :ohno:



What do you expect when NZTA are driving it? They're hardly likely to be one to encourage non-car based transport....

Funny how the pillars cause shadow but the bridge itself is supposedly see through and causes no light loss.

At least the buildings are hidden away though. Got to be a positive right?

I was pleasantly surprised when I saw the lanes in between buildings. Only to realise that the central buildings will be devoted to car parking = Car Activity > People Activity

Good to have you back FH ... you were one of the originals and a mod :) That's before the ex South Africans took over ;)

Thanks Sydney, haha I'm always around here in some way, just less visible than in the past :) You guys are doing a great job anyway!

:cheers:

Thanks Sydney, haha I'm always around here in some way, just less visible than in the past :) You guys are doing a great job anyway!

:cheers:

Thanks FH ... we have big shoes to fill :hug:

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8337/8251890880_015f657737_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8251890880/)
Lion Nathan (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8251890880/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

Scroll -------------------->>

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8198/8253330347_f4fe936744_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8253330347/)
227 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8253330347/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

New NZTA development will be more or less the same as what's there, just with more cars.

Beautiful street lined with mature Puriri :)

New NZTA development will be more or less the same as what's there, just with more cars.

The plan doesn't include any open-air car parks does it ?

The plan doesn't include any open-air car parks does it ?

No multi-storey ones which will be open air at the top I'm guessing

The good thing is that more of Newmarket will be opened up, as now we can get more out of the land underneath the viaduct.

Problem with Newmarket is that it has so many car movements, it's the back streets that hold promise of being quieter and more pleasant. There are some shocking omissions however such as why years after Newmarket station opened, the access route to it is hidden down a grotty alley, the entrance to which has a sign so small you don't notice it.

The shops are all empty in the building on the LHS so not sure if they are going to redo that entrance - but it needs some major attention.

(taken awhile back)

http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4032/4430185547_c72d40668e.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/4430185547/)
Newmarket (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/4430185547/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

It appears that the tenants in the red building are starting to move out, could this be the building that will be demolished for the entrance to Newmarket station ?

I was under the impression that the council hasn't even purchased the site, so it's probably unrelated. They also need to cover up the exposed sewer pipes leading into that square, it feels like some sort of squalid third world apartment building entrance at present.

^^ last I saw they had some agreements in place I think so hopefully this is what it is although I also remember hearing that the owner was objecting so they were looking at the neighbouring site which wouldn't have been as ideal. Guess we will just have to wait and find out.

I'm these apartments are what Brian Rudman based that article on about people being forced to live in apartments above train stations and all that rubbish.

They are terrible apartments though, massively wasted space that could of seen 4 towers next to each other instead of a horrid wall of plastic apartments.

I'm these apartments are what Brian Rudman based that article on about people being forced to live in apartments above train stations and all that rubbish.

No one is forced to live anywhere they don't want to.:ohno:

Newmarket is in dire need of some direction......... Not much happening and way too many empty shops on Broadway at the moment. Maybe the 227 redevelopment will be the catalyst - but for now there are more fun places to be. Osbourne Lane is complete but needs tenants -

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8385/8573554051_fddf82139a_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8573554051/)
Osbourne Lane (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8573554051/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8243/8573554717_fe576be0e7_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8573554717/)
Osbourne Lane (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8573554717/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8379/8573554745_cc426b0a31_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8573554745/)
Osbourne Lane (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8573554745/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8372/8574648208_392578d281_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8574648208/)
Osbourne Lane (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8574648208/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8086/8574648678_a46386e257_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8574648678/)
Osbourne Lane (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8574648678/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8230/8574649904_04cbc69969_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8574649904/)
Osbourne Lane (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8574649904/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8243/8574650012_71a68c4eab_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8574650012/)
Osbourne Lane (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8574650012/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8093/8573558127_bf610f4d17_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8573558127/)
Osbourne Lane (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8573558127/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8247/8573559633_41883b5d93_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8573559633/)
Osbourne Lane (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8573559633/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8529/8573560729_f1f8e100fa_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8573560729/)
Osbourne Lane (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8573560729/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8227/8573561073_fd50b444a0_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8573561073/)
Osbourne Lane (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8573561073/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

Looks great, I know what you mean about empty shops. I have two empty shops in Vulcan Lane under my office, the first time I have ever seen that. A reflection of online purchasing and over the top rent. I certainly purchase 80% of what I buy online and predominantly from overseas. The savings are amazing. I think we will see more and more empty shops. Within our law firm we are seeing a continued reduction in commercial leasing, and property transactions in general, despite the rhetoric spouted by real estate agents.

Looks great, I know what you mean about empty shops. I have two empty shops in Vulcan Lane under my office, the first time I have ever seen that. A reflection of online purchasing and over the top rent. I certainly purchase 80% of what I buy online and predominantly from overseas. The savings are amazing. I think we will see more and more empty shops. Within our law firm we are seeing a continued reduction in commercial leasing, and property transactions in general, despite the rhetoric spouted by real estate agents.

They won't be empty for long, Mojo is taking one of the shops in Vulcan Lane :cheers:

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8535/8703405191_5755bba96f_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8703405191/)
Newmarket Station Before (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8703405191/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4055/4296798716_81794fcac3_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/4296798716/)
Newmarket Station (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/4296798716/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

Newmarket station is really let down by that horrible view into the carpark of the apartment block next door, the wall is cheaply done with disintegrating concrete, weeds half dead half alive, it's a complete mess. A big row of billboards would almost be preferable. In any case I wish AT would construct something running along in front, it could simply be some sort of more attractive grill to still allow air flow into the garage, but the status quo is hideous. Related to this the shop and building that needs to be demolished to allow the entrance to station square to be improved is currently vacant, I had hoped this meant we'd see some progress but I now see it has for lease signs up. Come on AT/AC what's going on?!? A really great station but completely let down by the development next door and access to Broadway.

Broadway access is diabolical

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8560/8705011795_5cc6594c9b_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8705011795/)
Newmarket Station (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8705011795/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8114/8705011509_0895df56a6_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8705011509/)
Newmarket Station (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8705011509/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

The AT board were discussing something to do with the entrance and likely property purchases at a recent board meeting but it was in the closed section so not sure what the outcome is. Hopefully it will be resolved soon.

Shops on both sides appear to be vacant then, but the one on the left of the entrance is the one I'd assume they'd want to demolish. It's also pretty telling that the sign for the carparking is bigger than the sign showing the way to one of the largest stations on Auckland's network.