Third-wave Gentrification in New Zealand: The Case of Auckland

New Zealand's engagement with neo-liberalism since the mid 1980s has resulted in a profound transformation of its economy and society. As part of this process, new urban governance structures aligned with more entrepreneurial state activities have helped to fashion a dramatic revalorisation of inner-city areas. Under supportive planning conditions, considerable inflows of real estate capital have produced a set of spatially distinct and socially polarised residential outcomes. This paper reviews the nature of urban change in New Zealand under neo-liberalism and, in particular, examines the character of waterfront development in Auckland. It is argued that the creation of Viaduct Harbour represents third-wave, new-build gentrification. The `celebration' of this form of waterfront development holds significant implications for the future evolution of gentrification in New Zealand.