Liveability : residents and the built environment in Auckland's intensified CBD

Abstract

Residential intensification is currently a popular policy in cities around the world and has been the subject of much observation and theorising. Thus far, the more common justification for intensification strategies has been based on its environmental merits. As intensified residential areas are becoming widespread, the social implications of intensification will also be very important. lt is this aspect of the theory; the liveability of intensified living for residents, that this thesis seeks to contribute to.

In Auckland's central city, residential intensification has been significant and fast paced in the last two decades, particularly since the turn of the century. The resulting area of intensified high density living provides an opportunity for research into how residents relate to this intensified and dense built environment. This thesis contributes to the understanding of what makes intensified inner cities liveable through an in depth case study into residents' perspectives of life in the CBD and of their built environment. This investigation is framed by five common aspects of liveability: public spaces, walkability, safety, mixed use, and access to services and facilities.

The perspectives of residents were explored via a postal survey, and supplemented by interviews with professionals who work with residential aspects of Auckland's CBD. This primary research reveals that Auckland's CBD is perceived as generally liveable by its residents. More specifically, an understanding was gained of three areas. Firstly, of elements of liveability that are important to residents, such as access to their regular needs and wants. Secondly, of the success in Auckland's CBD of the five liveability factors in this study. Walkability, for example, was perceived as particularly successful. Thirdly, of the impacts that aspects of liveability have on residents, for instance behavioural changes made by some residents in response to safety. Together, this knowledge of liveability in Auckland's CBD can be used to inform policy and direct similar areas of intensification in the future. Lessons learnt can direct focus and priorities to actions that are important and influential in creating a liveable environment for residents.