Transforming a cleared pine slope into a biodiverse, accessible public reserve.

Boffa Miskell assisted in gaining resource consent for a new residential development at 120 Emerson Street, Dunedin. As part of the consent process for the subdivision, the client proposed reducing the size of the designated reserve, which will be handed over to Dunedin City Council following a five-year maintenance period, in exchange for delivering a higher-quality public space. 

The proposed reserve is on a steep, sloping site previously covered in pine trees, which have since been cleared, leaving tree stumps and exposed terrain. The site is well connected to nearby parks and reserves, including Mulford Park, Corstorphine Park, and the Emerson Street Recreation Reserve. Expansive views toward Mt Grand and Chain Hills provide strong visual and ecological potential.

Location

Otago

Project team

Emma Taylor
Jaz Morris

Project date

2022

Our role included preparing a landscape concept and detailed planting plan that would meet council expectations and enhance the ecological and recreational value of the site. The design focused on transforming a steep, recently cleared area into a biodiverse reserve with native planting, improved connectivity to nearby parks, and safe pedestrian access. 

Boffa Miskell ecologists selected species to support lizard and bird habitat, integrated stormwater planting, and provided implementation guidance and maintenance recommendations to ensure long-term success.

A planting strategy was developed using “plant clouds”—groupings of native species arranged in naturalistic clusters that respond to the site’s steep topography and ecological potential. These clusters were designed to support lizard and bird habitat, improve visual amenity, and manage stormwater effectively. Using locally sourced native plants ensures ecological resilience, while the layered planting structure creates a dynamic and diverse landscape. The design balances habitat creation with accessibility, contributing to a distinctive and sustainable reserve that meets both community and council expectations.