Urban Solutions was commissioned in 2018 to undertake the design and consenting of a new path network through the Symonds Street Cemetery.

The objective of the works was to provide better access to and upgrade the Catholic memorial, encourage people to explore the cemetery grounds and improve pedestrian access and connections to surrounding streets.

The new paths have provided a connection between Karangahape Road and the Grafton Gully Cycleway.  Some of the existing Rose Trail route within the cemetery was formalised to enable safe all-weather access, the asphalt paths in Pigeon Park have been upgraded and new paving laid at the Catholic memorial.

Urban Solutions designed the path network, gained resource consent and heritage Authority from HNZPT as well as supervised the physical works contract in accordance with the granted consents.  Engagement with Iwi was undertaken, and consultation with Heritage NZ, Council’s Built Heritage team and the Heritage Arborist was necessary due to the unique and historical significance of the cemetery.  Selected works were supervised by a registered archaeologist and project arborist to ensure there was no damage to the existing gravestones/infrastructure or mature and heritage trees.