Challenges and Opportunities for Implementing Universal Design in Aotearoa New Zealand

Cities and urban settlements in New Zealand have two characteristics that make for challenges and opportunities for Universal Design. Their urban forms have long been criticised for adopting auto-centric planning and design. Transforming the cities to a more-pedestrian oriented mode, is a major challenge. In addition, there are very limited requirements for accessible design and development in urban planning and building and systems, with most of the 'heavy lifting' being done by the Human Rights Act. And there are no statutory requirements to adopt a universal design approach. The government's response to the 2022 UNCRPD assessment is considered, noting the lack of urgency and the seeming reluctance to implement universal design. This is contrasted with the experience of Auckland Council, the largest city with one third of the population. The Council has adopted universal design and co-design, working with disabled communities on addressing needs. Whilst these initiatives have produced some tangible physical outcomes in the city, this paper suggests that there are limits to what can be achieved locally.