Our community's ideas and aspirations will help shape the future direction of our city through the City Centre Catalyst Initiatives Project.
Stage one of the project was led and funded by Trust Tairāwhiti, in partnership with GDC and Rongowhakaata Iwi Trust, with the aim of identifying a series of catalyst initiatives that would help revitalise Gisborne's city centre.
We worked alongside Urbanismplus for the project, one of Australasia's leading sustainability-based urban design consultants, who have led successful centre strategy projects throughout Aotearoa, including Hastings, Whanganui and Nelson.
The project focused on initiatives that aligned with existing plans and policies and could be progressed quickly by working with private and public land owners, building owners and developers.
The first stage involved extensive community engagement, including at the A&P Show, where we received about 250 written submissions on what people loved about our city centre, what they didn't like, and what improvements they'd like to see.
We also held focused topic engagement sessions and technical workshops to explore strategic opportunities.
Recurring themes emerged, including a desire for more family-friendly spaces, better use of vacant buildings, improved safety, more apartment living and new businesses.
From that feedback, project partners have identified a series of initiatives to bring to life as part of a strategic work programme. This reflects community aspirations, honours the values of mana whenua and integrates local cultural narratives.
- River edge playground/amphitheatre
Transforming an underused area into vibrant spaces for play, relaxation and connection. Landscape development to provide a visual connection to the awa and accessibility from Lowe Street and Reads Quay. - Hei Pipi
Landscape development, co-designed with Rongowhakaata, to add elements of hospitality, play and amenities that bring families and the community to the city centre and awa edge. - 100 Peel Street (former Police Station site)
Healing whenua restoration and temporary landscaping to provide a space for kōrero, play, hospitality and temporary art. - Main street micro spaces
Urban design using existing street features to enhance the user experience. This includes developing spaces to rest, gather and eat, addressing accessibility issues, more shade and shelter, and separation from road movement through plantings. - City reception room
We're exploring potential new locations for the isite in the City Centre that could double as a city reception room—a welcoming hub connecting our locals and visitors to information, services, stories and opportunities. - Night market
Local kai, art and entertainment on the river end of Lowe Street. - Capital attraction
Seek opportunities for residential and commercial development in the city centre. - City Centre management
Dedicated support to get our city centre humming, providing a central point of contact and advocate for businesses and activities.
The second phase of the project will commence in the 2025/26 financial year and involves planning, design and delivery.
More than 400 engaged in community sessions.
