Latest research sets scene for a new Auckland agenda

A landmark digital survey released today reveals that while Aucklanders are strongly united on the city’s big priorities — such as long-term infrastructure planning, environmental protection, and becoming a global innovation hub — many remain unconvinced the Super City model has delivered.

The findings come as diverse Auckland’s leaders gather for Auckland at 15, an event that examines the region’s progress since the creation of the Super City in 2010 and calls for a new agenda to ensure the region is thriving, sustainable and globally competitive by 2040.

The survey, Auckland@15: Shaping the next fifteen years, shows both shared vision and clear tension — particularly on transport and cultural identity — where support for progress exists alongside significant frustration with how change is being delivered. Most Aucklanders (76%) believe the city lacks a cohesive public transport vision – and while just 28% support sticking with private transport and putting up with congestion, that view reflects a deeply held divide.

The University of Auckland’s Complex Conversations Lab conducted the research as Auckland approaches 15 years as an amalgamated council. The innovative Pol.is platform was used showing Aucklanders overwhelmingly support a long-term infrastructure plan (94%), and there is near-universal agreement on protecting the natural environment (up to 95%).

However, only 53% of those surveyed believe amalgamation of the eight former councils has succeeded in unifying Auckland’s voice, and just 18% feel they have influence over Auckland Council decisions. Cultural identity remains a sharp point of division with 64% of Aucklanders agreeing the region has a recognisable multicultural identity, however 29% are skeptical about further cultural investment.

Hosted by Auckland University of Technology, the Committee for Auckland, Deloitte, and the Helen Clark Foundation, the Auckland at 15 event will feature four expert panels focused on legacy and political progress, global city success, Auckland’s future-readiness, and defining the next 15 years.

Minister for Auckland, Simeon Brown, and the Mayor of Auckland, Wayne Brown, will be joined by former prime ministers, Rt Hon Sir John Key and Rt Hon Helen Clark, alongside business and emerging young leaders, iwi, academics, and international experts.

Committee for Auckland Director Mark Thomas said if Auckland does not reset its direction with a new agenda that focuses on bolder action, smarter investment, and much stronger global competitiveness it will continue to fall behind.

"We must learn more effectively from the best globally and have the courage to back bold, transformative ideas locally or risk continuing to lose the economic opportunity, talent, and quality of life we need to thrive.

“The annual State of the City report shows Auckland is already being overtaken by faster-moving global competitor cities. Without much clearer commitment from central and local government and their partners Auckland’s standard of living and growth prospects will continue to suffer," he said.

Deloitte New Zealand Chief Executive Mike Horne said change is needed to help Auckland make more meaningful progress.

"Auckland has been incremental in what it has achieved since becoming a Super City 15 years ago. Being incremental isn’t going to achieve what the city needs."

"Auckland has a real opportunity to look at itself in a global context — if Auckland isn’t competing globally, New Zealand will suffer. Now is the time for the city to look outward, focusing on connections and innovation, instead of looking in the mirror and rehashing its challenges."

Auckland University of Technology Vice-Chancellor Damon Salesa adds, "AUT is acutely aware of the need for Auckland to succeed in the next 15 years and beyond. Our city will be home to the greatest number of international students, Māori and Pacific young people and indeed of all youth. They have enormous potential and deserve a city that provides education, infrastructure, and employment opportunities."

"AUT is focused on partnerships to amplify the impact our university, students and academics can provide for Auckland and beyond so our city’s people can thrive. This means focusing on our city’s unique combination of talented people with diverse and cosmopolitan experiences and viewpoints.”

Reflecting on the purpose of amalgamation, Helen Clark, Patron of the Helen Clark Foundation, said that there had been concern that Auckland’s potential could not be maximised with its governance dispersed across a number of territorial councils. “The Royal Commission was established to look at better options, and I have no doubt that the single city has been the right outcome,” she said.

Auckland at 15 is being described by organisers as a catalyst for sustained action, partnerships, and dialogue about Auckland’s direction.

Key deliverables from the event include an annual legacy youth event hosted by AUT, and a mentoring programme for aspiring youth leaders provided by Committee for Auckland from its Future Auckland Leaders’ Alumni. Deloitte will produce a written summary of the event and Auckland Council’s Auckland Conversations will make the full recording of the event available.