New Zealand Urban Design Protocol

The New Zealand Urban Design Protocol was published in March 2005 by the Ministry for the Environment to recognise the importance of urban design to the development of successful towns and cities. The protocol is a voluntary commitment by central and local government, property developers and investors, design professionals, educational institutes and other groups to undertake specific urban design initiatives.

Six Essential Attributes edit

The protocol identifies six essential attributes that successful towns and cities share;

  • Competitive places that thrive economically and facilitate creativity and innovation
  • Liveable places that provide a choice of housing, work and lifestyle options
  • Environmentally responsible places that manage all aspects of the environment sustainably
  • Inclusive places that offer opportunities for all citizens
  • Distinctive places that have a strong identity and sense of place
  • Well-governed places that have a shared vision and sense of direction.

The Seven Cs edit

The protocol is centred on “The Seven Cs”, which are considered the essential design qualities that create urban design;

  • Context
  • Character
  • Choice
  • Connections
  • Creativity
  • Custodianship
  • Collaboration

Authorship edit

The New Zealand Urban Design Protocol was prepared with input from the following professionals;

Urban Design Advisory Group edit

Ministry for the Environment edit

External links edit