Woods has delivered planning, design, and infrastructure services for Millwater since 2006, helping shape this large-scale master-planned community.

Our role

Millwater is one of Auckland’s most established and successful large-scale developments. Spanning over 300 hectares at Silverdale North and Arran Hill near Ōrewa, the development has delivered around 3,000 homes, 50 hectares of business and commercial space, schooling at all levels, and an extensive network of parks, open spaces, and recreational amenities.

Woods has provided engineering, surveying, planning, and urban design services for Millwater since 2006. Our team was closely involved in the master planning of the development and in establishing the planning framework for Silverdale North with local and regional authorities.

From the outset, the vision for Millwater was to create a complete community — a place where people can live, work, play, and learn. Over time, that vision has been realised and embraced, with Millwater becoming a sought-after destination not just for residents, but for visitors making use of the area’s many amenities.

Woods has led the planning and delivery of every subdivision stage, earthworks, and infrastructure package, including stormwater, wastewater, water supply, roading, and major transport connections. We’ve designed and delivered two key bridges — a 120-metre crossing over the Ōrewa River and a 60-metre crossing over one of its tributaries — with care taken to protect sensitive ecological values throughout.

This was also the first major development in Auckland to use low-pressure sewer systems. Our team coordinated closely with Auckland Transport and NZTA on the design and construction of the Wainui Interchange onto SH1, as well as signalised intersections, roundabouts, collector roads, and local roads within the development.

Key challenges

The most significant challenge was managing the scale and complexity of a multi-decade development, including hundreds of lots and layers of infrastructure delivery. The extended timeline required consistent stakeholder engagement and the ability to adapt as regulatory frameworks and environmental standards evolved.

Woods’ integrated, multidisciplinary structure allowed us to bring engineering, planning, surveying, and urban design together under one roof — ensuring seamless coordination across all project elements. Over time, we’ve built trusted relationships with local iwi, council, and agencies, helping to maintain support and continuity throughout the life of the development.

Outcome

Now in its final years of delivery, Millwater has become a thriving, resilient community. Woods is proud to have played a central role in shaping this development from concept to near-completion — helping deliver one of Auckland’s most successful examples of long-term urban growth.