Insight for Sunday 6 September 2009

The development of Wellington's waterfront is an on-going tussle between those wanting easy access to the harbour and others who believe building up the area is essential for its vitality.

Many people feel Auckland's waterfront is pretty much lost to the public, despite the recent investment in Queen's wharf that will see the development of a cruise ship terminal and World Cup "party central" by 2011.

So what should the relationship be between city and sea? Can the development of some of the country's most valuable land satisfy everyone?

Eric Frykberg explores the changes that are taking place around the country's main waterfronts and looks at the attempts being made to balance public access and commerce.

Photo: Auckland harbour