Sustainabilty

Stonefields leads the way in environmental best practice for Auckland developments, implementing water sensitive design on a scale not seen before in New Zealand.

Key elements of this design approach include re-using stormwater via a ‘third pipe’ system, an extensive wetland system and the construction of swales which are plant-filled surfaces that channel surface water down into the ground and then into the pipe system.

The third pipe system – which is the result of a collaboration between Todd Property, Metrowater, Auckland City and the consultant team of Wood and Partners and CH2M Beca - will recycle stormwater for use in the toilets and garden irrigation of dwellings within Stonefields.

Under this system, stormwater runoff and groundwater will collect in the wetland at the lowest point in the development. From there it will be treated before being pumped to a reservoir at the high point of the site. The treated water will then be reticulated back down through the development in a separate, system to each property. This system will be completely distinct from the drinking water system (hence the name '3rd Pipe').

Any of Stonefields’ stormwater which is not required for the third pipe system will be pumped to the neighbouring Waiatarua Reserve, where it is acknowledged as a key component in the health of that wetland system.

“Stonefields’ design sets an excellent example of sustainable water reuse,” says Todd Property Group Senior Development Manager, Aaron Smail, “by reducing runoff and peak flows, protecting natural systems, integrating stormwater treatment into the landscape and protecting water quality to the Waiatarua Reserve. It also lessens demand on Auckland’s potable water supply. ”

Todd Property Group is funding, designing and constructing the system, after which it will be vested to Auckland Council who will in turn transfer it to Watercare Services to own and operate. The third pipe supply is being metered in the same manner as drinking water.

Recent water shortages have made water recycling commonplace in Australia and parts of the U.S., but to date New Zealand’s relative abundance of water has not economically justified the construction of a scheme on this scale. However Stonefields’ unique geography, together with a desire by Todd Property and Auckland Council to take a lead on sustainable water practices, made it a perfect choice for the introduction of this technology.

“I believe this project will be leading edge for New Zealand,” Mr Smail says. “Through the application of best practice urban design and development Stonefields will deliver benefits to both residents and the city as a whole.’

The "Third pipe" system will be up and running in 2011/2012 following construction of a final storage reservoir. 



Connectivity

A core principal behind the design of Stonefields has been to create a logical structure of connected routes to encourage easy access in and around the community, for pedestrians, cyclists, bus or train users and car drivers.

Walking and cycling within the site is a priority, with safe street design established to enable children to cycle or walk safely to the centrally located school and allow people to easily reach nearby reserves, neighbourhood centre facilities or the public transport options that will be available.

The Stonefields master plan incorporates the upgrading of nearby external roads and intersections to assist Council in their responsibilities to minimise the impact of traffic in the area over time, these include:

• Providing two arterial boulevard roads into the suburb
• Upgrading College Rd and Ngahue Drive
• Providing financial contributions to Council for their future upgrading of five nearby intersections
• Providing for the integration of public transport services
• Providing pedestrian and cycling facilities, including walkways, crossings and a heritage trail around the edge of Stonefields.

The road configuration within Stonefields is broadly divided into three types; boulevards, parkways and residential lanes.  Each has a distinct look and feel to help provide legibility throughout Stonefields.  Pohutukawa is the main tree along the boulevards and parkways, of which the crimson red flowers mimic the original lava flows, that helped form the foundations, while iconic native trees are planted at the roundabouts and in many cases mark the entry to Stonefields.