WHAREPAPA RESERVE

Wharepapa Reserve is an important piece of undeveloped open space on the edge of the Lucas Creek and forms part of the wider Schnapper Rock housing subdivision that has recently been completed in this area. As such, Auckland Council engaged Bespoke to complete a conceptual master plan for the reserve that could improve its recreational value as well as provide reference to the Maori and European settlement history. Our study explored the development of a general path network, the re-development of Schnapper Rock Wharf, a playspace, lookout spaces and general interpretation throughout the site. Particular attention was paid to the historical uses of the Lucas Creek area, including flax milling, gum-digging, bootlegging and historic water transport. For the playspace we saw opportunity in making reference to the relationship Maori had with the Lucas Creek (Kaipatiki), including food gathering and transport.