Mapping liveability: The “15-min city” concept for car-dependent districts in Auckland, New Zealand

Abstract

This research explores the feasibility of aligning cities with post-COVID realities by retrofitting the emerging 15-min city model into the current urban setup. COVID-19's lasting global effects on trans-territorial mobility, particularly in car-dependent cities, prompt a rethinking of urban models and infrastructure for heightened resilience and post-pandemic liveability. Using network analysis and GIS mapping techniques, this research applies the 15-min city model to identify the most “liveable areas” in two car-dependent suburban neighbourhoods with contrasting service structures—dispersed in Remuera and centralised in Onehunga in Auckland City, New Zealand. “Liveable areas” are defined as areas with overlap coverage of all 6 essential services within a 15-min walk. The analysis involves a horizontal comparison of essential service coverage and a longitudinal analysis of the impacts of essential service coverage, both collectively and individually, within both neighbourhoods. Findings suggest the potential to retrofit both districts' urban infrastructure, while proximity to retail, healthcare, and leisure facilities are the services most urgently needing improvements. Noted issues include excessive big-box retail growth, uneven healthcare distribution, and private, non-everyday access to natural resources. This research methodically tests proximity-based planning for sustainable living, work, and recreation in car-dependent districts with centralised or dispersed urban structures.