1782 days ago

Million-dollar dumps: Publicly owned properties fall to rack and ruin

Caroline Williams Reporter from Auckland Stuff

To the side of East Auckland’s Te Ara ki Uta ki Tai cycleway, nestled in overgrown greenery, is a building that wouldn’t get a second glance if it weren’t for hot pink graffiti.

The house, owned by Auckland Council subsidiary Auckland Transport, was used as a site office by Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency staff working on the $46 million cycleway between Glen Innes to Tāmaki Drive, Auckland Transport spokesman Mark Hannan said.

But locals say the property has been all but destroyed by vandals since the cycleway was completed in 2016.

The property is one of several that have become run down and derelict under the ownership of local government.

Click 'read more' for my full report on publicly owned properties that have fallen out of use.

Image
More messages from your neighbours
9 hours ago

Share your favourite main crop potato recipe and win a copy of our mag!

William Hansby Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

Love potatoes? We will give away free copies of the May 2026 issue to readers whose potato recipes are used in our magazine. To be in the running, make sure you email your family's favourite way to enjoy potatoes: mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, by March 1, 2026.

Image
19 days ago

Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.

Image
4 hours ago

Branded tote bags

Louise from Monty's Promotions Limited

Need custom tote bags for your business, school or event? We can help - local, reliable, easy.

Image