URBAN DESIGN · PLANNING · LANDSCAPE · ENVIRONMENTAL

Better places.
Thriving nature.

We help councils, iwi, communities and developers create resilient, biodiverse and healthy places. Our team combines design and planning with GIS and environmental insight—from individual sites to connected blue-green networks.

Explore our work →    Discuss your project →

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

OUR APPROACH

Nature as critical infrastructure.

We connect the way places are planned with the natural systems that sustain them. From public spaces and streets to catchments and neighbourhoods, our work brings together design, policy and evidence to support practical decisions.

See the projects behind our approach →

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.

01 / URBAN DESIGN

Places for people.

Public realm and streetscape design, masterplanning, regeneration and design guidance that connect people, place and nature.

Explore urban design →

02 / PLANNING

A clear path forward.

Strategic planning, policy, resource consents and assessments of environmental effects, informed by design and meaningful engagement.

Explore planning work →

03 / LANDSCAPE

Living landscapes.

Landscape planning and design, public spaces, living roofs and green infrastructure that support biodiversity and everyday wellbeing.

Explore landscape work →

04 / ENVIRONMENTAL

Connected natural systems.

Blue-green network planning, nature-based solutions, urban ngahere and climate adaptation, supported by GIS and spatial analysis.

Explore environmental work →

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.

KNOWLEDGE & PUBLICATIONS

Evidence that informs better places.

Living roof opportunities and recommendations for Tāmaki Makaurau

Auckland Council technical report TR2026/9 · September 2026

Local evidence, barriers to uptake and practical recommendations for living roofs as part of a wider approach to nature-based solutions. Co-authored by Zoë Avery and Jonathon Avery with council, research and industry collaborators.

Read the published report →   Explore our knowledge shelf →

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."

OUR COMMITMENT

Living urbanism.

We design for the connection between people, the built environment and nature. Our eight principles are permeability, legibility, concentration, diversity, sustainability, identity, accessibility and robustness.

Our work aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals: sustainable cities, health and wellbeing, responsible consumption, climate action, partnerships, reduced inequality and gender equality.

We aim to reduce our footprint through fewer flights and vehicle trips, walking, cycling and public transport, and careful use of energy and resources. Our past support for Forest & Bird includes donations in 2022, 2023 and 2024.

Let’s discuss your project →