LINKages

Currently, there is a negative trend in the way small New Zealand towns are developing, ignoring community values and a sense of identity. New Zealand, a country renowned for the beauty of its small towns and wild natural landscapes has also experienced a negative trend in small town developments. Coastal and rural settlements are growing and changing to cater for expansion while neglecting significant and unique character. These aspects hold a considerable amount of value concerning the identity of the town and what makes it unique to the community. Kapiti Coast, specifically Waikanae, is a place within the Greater Wellington Region of New Zealand which presents an ideal location populated mainly by retirees and elderly (50%) as well as young families (35%) seeking affordable housing. The landscape form is unique as it is composed of both an attractive coastal edge with proximity to a lush rural setting. The suburban town was once a cohesive region with an ‘Olde beach’ character that is now highly disjointed through infrastructure developments. The implementation of new highways combined with the continuous development of residential neighbourhoods has influenced a decline both socially and ecologically. This thesis investigation aims to explore how landscape architecture can re-inject values and character through design interventions within coastal environments. Highlighting unique elements within the coastal landscape while considering both the needs of younger and older generations, public space can be provided as a way to foster social cohesion and assist with future coastal town development.