2016-
Albany
Woods has been a key partner in the transformation of land that was once part of the Massey University Albany campus into a new neighbourhood.
Since 2016, Woods has provided a comprehensive suite of services for the redevelopment of 473 Albany Highway — a 13.6-hectare site strategically located near schools, reserves, sports facilities and transport connections. Originally engaged during the due diligence stage for a previous owner, Woods was later retained for our familiarity with the site.
We led the consenting process for a masterplanned, 600+ lot residential development, including a retirement village and a publicly accessible shared path network. This required coordination with Auckland Council, Auckland Transport, and the Upper Harbour Local Board to ensure seamless integration with public spaces and infrastructure. Engagement with iwi was also a vital part of the process, with feedback on stormwater quality and cultural values helping shape the water-sensitive design outcomes.
In parallel, Woods provided strategic planning and technical advice to support a private Plan Change request, enabling a significant uplift in housing density. Our team prepared and led presentations to the Auckland Urban Design Panel and represented the project through the Plan Change hearings process.
The successful outcome was made possible by close collaboration between our in-house teams — planning, urban design, engineering, stormwater, surveying and spatial services — all working together to realise a bold vision.
Transforming an institutional site into a high-density residential neighbourhood came with multiple layers of complexity. The project required early identification of site constraints, including existing infrastructure, transport interfaces, and natural features such as watercourses and bush areas. Gaining support for increased density under the Unitary Plan framework required a strong planning rationale and careful urban design thinking.
Another key challenge was balancing the needs of multiple stakeholders. The project required extensive engagement with iwi, council departments, transport agencies, and community boards — all of whom brought different priorities and concerns. Woods played a central role in managing these relationships and incorporating stakeholder input into the final masterplan.
The shared path and public access component required additional sensitivity, as it connected future residents with existing public infrastructure, demanding high-quality design and delivery to meet expectations for walkability and amenity.
The 473 Albany development is now positioned to deliver more than 600 homes in a walkable, connected, and amenity-rich community. Woods’ leadership in planning and design enabled a successful Plan Change that significantly increased the site’s development potential — unlocking housing supply in a high-demand area.
By working as one multi-disciplinary team — Woods was able to reduce risk, streamline decision-making, and ensure that the development reflects both community needs and long-term urban growth objectives.
