Auckland International Airport

Enhancing Resilience at Auckland International Airport with WaterUps
Auckland International Airport’s large car park and arrival area planter boxes have long struggled during dry periods, particularly impacting the iconic pōhutukawa trees planted within them. Known as New Zealand’s Christmas tree, the pōhutukawa is celebrated for its striking red summer blooms, yet these conditions posed a challenge to their health and longevity.
Recognising the need for a sustainable solution, we collaborated with Auckland Airport to trial WaterUps wicking systems in select planters.
In one planter, where a tree had previously failed and been removed, we installed a WaterUps 0880 wicking kit with a double-height inlet pipe, positioning the reservoir 900mm deep at the planter’s base. A Podocarpus Gracilior was then planted as the new feature tree, accompanied by an underplanting of dwarf flax and grasses to add lush volume and variety.
In another planter, where an existing pōhutukawa remained, we carefully integrated two WaterUps starter kits—one in each corner—at a depth of 350mm. This approach ensured the existing root system remained undisturbed while providing a dedicated water reservoir for the underplanting and additional hydration for the feature tree.
The results have been impressive. Throughout the intense summer heat, the newly planted Podocarpus Gracilior has thrived, with its underplanting benefiting from deep, consistent moisture. Meanwhile, the established pōhutukawa continues to flourish, supported by the WaterUps system’s efficient water delivery—ensuring resilience and reducing maintenance in this challenging environment.