Golden Mile project history

Our work to revitalise Courtenay Place is part of a larger project to upgrade the parts of Wellington known collectively as the Golden Mile – including Lambton Quay, part of Willis St, Manners St and Courtenay Place. 

This project started under Let’s Get Wellington Moving (LGWM), a joint initiative of Wellington City Council, Waka Kotahi New Zealand Transport Agency and Greater Wellington Regional Council.  

In early 2024, LGWM was wound up and responsibility for the Golden Mile was transferred to Wellington City Council (WCC). 

Over the project lifespan, more than 40,000 pieces of feedback have been provided by Wellingtonians. At each stage of engagement, Wellingtonians have consistently supported more pedestrianisation, better public transport and a reduced focus on private vehicles. 

 

Project timeline

2025

 In February, final designs for Courtenay Place are released along with supporting documentation: 

Construction is set to begin in April 2025, on Cambridge and Kent Terrace.

2024
  • LGWM closes and WCC takes of the project, setting up a Major Transport Project Team. 
  • WCC consults on the Long Term Plan, which includes the Golden Mile project. 
  • WCC votes in favour of the Long Term Plan 2024-34.
  • From June, WCC undertakes a review of the project and leads the work to finalise designs.  
  • In September, WCC undertakes public consultation on changes to a traffic resolution for Cambridge/Kent Terrace.
  • In November, when amending the Long Term Plan 2024-34, WCC votes to retain the Golden Mile project with full funding meaning construction can start in early 2024. 
2023

The design incorporates public feedback and LGWM consults on the traffic resolutions, which WCC then approves. 

2022

The design is developed, and the public is invited to provide feedback. 

2021

A preferred revitalisation option was identified based on public feedback. LGWM completes business case for the project. 

2020

Research is commissioned on how proposed changes would impact on retailers, and on people’s travel and behaviour patterns in the area. The public is consulted on revitalisation options. 

2019

The vision for the future of the Golden Mile is taken to the public for consultation and a report is produced. 

2018

An online survey with a representative sample of Wellingtonians and public engagement is conducted on transport related issues and possible solutions. 

2016

Initial research by external research firm UMR investigates issues about Wellington’s transport system. Results are used to guide the implementation of transport planning in the region.