Urban Design, Planning and Landscape

We create resilient, regenerative and equitable urban environments that support a sustainable and healthy life for people and nature.  We do this by designing and nurturing mutually beneficial relationships between people, place and planet. 

A scenic promenade with a mosaic-tiled pathway and a small palm tree. Several people are walking along the path, which leads to a unique structure with a golden dome. Sailboats are docked in a marina on the left. The scene has a playful architectural
Illustration of a cross-section of a natural area labeled 'Bush Remnants,' showing existing trees and vegetation with areas marked as 'Nga Here Extension,' human figures in blue for scale, and birds flying above.
Colorful mosaic wall and blue dome

We are dedicated to creating a better way of living - focussing on sustainability and climate change adaptation.  We are small and agile, offering a collaborative and holistic service to clients, working with industry leaders, research facilities and consultants to provide efficient and sustainable project outcomes. 

Detailed site map showing land use zones, including existing and new plantings, wetlands, orchards, roads, walkways, paddocks, permitted building areas, and bat protection areas. Includes labeled features like Marked Rock, Pa Site, and areas marked f
Colorful brick walkway with railings surrounded by lush greenery and blue sculptures under a clear blue sky.
Architectural landscape illustration with trees, silhouettes of people, a bicycle, car, and birds in the sky.

Urban Design

  • Public realm strategy and design

  • Design guidelines

  • Green infrastructure development and policy

  • Regional strategies and policy

  • Urban regeneration and town centre strategies

  • Streetscape design

  • Pilot projects

  • Systems strategies

Planning

  • Masterplanning and strategic planning

  • Design guidelines, tools & policies

  • Climate adaptation plans

  • Resource consents + Assessments of Environmental Effects

  • Infrastructure planning

  • Iwi, public and stakeholder consultation

Landscape

  • Living roof and wall (green roofs and walls) design

  • Green infrastructure design

  • Landscape planning and design

  • District and regional visioning, strategies and policy

  • Public space design

  • Sustainable Development / Environmental Enhancements

Wildflower garden with white daisies and purple flowers.
Man with a beard and plaid shirt riding a bicycle, carrying a leather bag in an urban setting.
A city park with benches beneath trees, a clock tower, and modern buildings in the background.

At The Urbanist we are committed to working to the principles of living urbanism which is defined as the sensory connection of humans with the built environment and nature. Living urbanism design-led principles, drawn from urban design, are permeability, legibility, concentration, diversity, sustainability, identity, accessibility, and robustness.

The Urbanist’s objectives are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Our work is centred around creating sustainable neighbourhoods and places while also striving to deliver, where we can as a small business, on the following goals, working with our clients, for the greater good:

  • Sustainable Cities and Communities

  • Good Health and Well-being

  • Responsible Consumption and Production

  • Climate Action

  • Partnerships to achieve the Goal

  • Reduced Inequality

  • Gender Equality

At The Urbanist, we are committed to reducing our carbon footprint by minimising the number of flights, vehicle trips we take, supporting public transport and cycling, and by monitoring and reducing our energy consumption and waste production.

Yellow footprints icon on white background
Yellow bicycle icon on a white background.

Total Walk KMs

Total Bike KMs

63 Km

821.4 Km

Yellow school bus icon, front view
Yellow ship icon on waves

Total Bus KMs

Total Ferry KMs

430.6 Km

0 Kms

Yellow car icon, front view
Yellow cloud shape with "CO2" text inside

Total Car KMS

CO2 Saved

88.8 Kms

61.97 Kg

*Stats are recorded from 1st February 2025 and updated on 27 February 2025.

Forest & Bird logo, featuring a tree silhouette with wildlife imagery, and the text "Forest & Bird," "Te Reo o Te Taiao," and "Giving Nature a Voice."

Each year we donate to a group or organisation in Aotearoa that aligns with our values. We have collectively decided to donate to Forest & Bird in 2022, 2023 and 2024 – being Aotearoa/New Zealand's leading independent conservation organisation.