Introducing the Auckland Narrative Programme
Auckland is New Zealand’s gateway city, playing a crucial role in national growth, innovation, and identity. With over one-third of the country’s population and nearly 40% of its GDP, Auckland’s importance stems from a mix of mana whenua leadership, strong Māori cultural roots, and exceptional diversity. This mix fuels creativity, connectivity, and global influence, offering stability and opportunity. Yet, as highlighted in the State of the City 2025 report, Auckland grapples with ongoing issues: low productivity compared to similar cities, gaps in skills development, disconnected planning, housing and infrastructure challenges, and waning international status.
To tackle these problems, the Committee is launching a programme of activity to develop an Auckland Narrative. The Auckland Narrative seeks to be a long-term unifying narrative that places Auckland’s role as New Zealand’s innovation, gateway and global city in the national context. This programme will bring together private, public, iwi, academic, and NGO sectors under a united vision. It will define Auckland’s roles at home and abroad, respond to data insights, and support collective action in innovation, skills, place-making, transport, and productivity. The Auckland Narrative will help build stronger consensus on long-term goals, align policy with the Auckland Regional Deal, and build true partnerships with government for shared planning, increased local powers, and fair funding.
Through a strong, evidence-based narrative, the Committee hopes this programme will shift from distinct initiatives to unified ambition, making Auckland a globally competitive, locally lively, and nationally significant city for today and future generations.
The Committee is building a coalition of supporters focused on evidence-led actions to build and align on the actions to deliver a thriving, dynamic, and globally-acknowledged city.
We look forward to engaging with our members, partners and stakeholders on this programme. Please get in touch if you would like more information.
