Mairangi Bay Beach Reserve

Public Use Study

The Mairangi Bay Beach Reserve Public Use Study assessed how the beach and reserve areas are currently used to guide future design and management decisions, including the potential relocation of the Surf Lifesaving Club facility.

Conducted over four days in November and December 2024, the study area covered approximately 8,000 m², including the beach, foreshore reserve and the area surrounding the Surf Lifesaving Club.

Data was collected through drone flights, structured observation studies, and intercept surveys which captured visitor numbers, behaviours, activities, and preferences.

Drone imagery was turned into easy to understand heat maps, which showed the areas of the reserve were most used.

The research provided a detailed understanding of visitor demographics, peak use times, high-use areas, and key amenities valued by the community.

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Project Benefit

The study provides robust, evidence-based insights into the use of the reserve. Insights will guide future planning, ensuring upgrades and developments reflect actual community needs. The study identifies priority areas for amenity improvements, supports climate-resilient infrastructure decisions, and highlights opportunities for activating under-utilised spaces. Recommendations to enhance accessibility, connectivity, and waste management will help improve the visitor experience, while the findings offer a shared evidence base for Council, community groups, and the Surf Lifesaving Club to collaborate effectively.
Client organisation
Auckland Council
Open Space Planning
Open space strategy
Research
Observation Studies
Intercept Surveys
People Counting
GIS Analysis and mapping
Drone Imagery