The City Rail Link is the single biggest redefinition of Auckland City. It plays a pivotal role in both transport and economic development in connecting existing infrastructure with an expanding city. Significant development has been completed in terms of planning, design and consultation, with the intention of the system being complete and operational in 2023.
I worked with Tyrone Ohia on the design strategy, and audio/visual design of the stations under the guidance of creative director Dean Poole. A near unlimited amount of research was held to ensure the final designs were correct by Mana Whenua, and reflected the people of the land. I have a new found understanding of Auckland/Tamaki Makaurau, and the biological makeup of the land.
Beyond its function as a transport system, its potential is to be the largest public art project in New Zealand. Creative Director Dean Poole and myself are working across the entire project, including discussions with mana whenua, Mayor Phil Goff, and architecture studio Jasmax. We have worked to create a place that incorporates the beauty of its native region, and a greater understanding of the tūrangawaewae.
This is to be represented in core themes of Raw Sophistication; Biophilic Design; Pattern Language; Playful Intellectualism; and Pragmatic Inventiveness. These are at the heart of what we offer together as a culture made up of diverse peoples.
I was there late last year when the mayor, Phil Goff, visited the Alt Group studio to get a briefing on the project. He marvelled at it. He called it “a rare opportunity” and said, enthusiastically, “this really makes a statement”.
- Simon Wilson, New Zealand Herald.
