Blue-green networks

Blue-green networks explained

A blue-green network is a system of waterways (blue) and parks (green) that:

• give stormwater space to flow
• help reduce flooding where people live.

Blue-green projects and Making Space for Water

Following the severe weather in Auckland in early 2023, we are considering how we interact with water in our populated neighbourhoods. Creating more blue-green networks in suitable locations can make our communities safer.

As part of our Making Space for Water 10-year flood mitigation programme, we identified 12 potential areas around the region that could most benefit from blue-green networks.

Visit Blue-green network projects to learn about the process for prioritising and developing these areas.

How blue-green networks work

In dry weather the community can enjoy these parks. During storms the parks may flood, moving water away from and reducing flooding on private property.

Watch our video that explains blue-green networks.

Read the video transcript.

Current blue-green networks

Blue-green networks already exist in the region and are helping to manage stormwater during severe weather events.

Examples include:

• Awakeri Wetlands
• Hobsonville Point
• Long Bay
• Greenslade Reserve
• Te Auanga / Oakley Creek
• Taiaotea Creek
• Waiatarua wetlands
• Taniwha Reserve
• Puhinui Stream
• Project Twin Streams.

Learn more about our current blue-green networks.