The general aim of this elective is to enhance the experience of students through exposure to new and different planning ideas, systems, planning projects and urban management processes. It will involve an intensive, guided field investigation of planning issues in Auckland with a major focus on approaches to growth management, heritage, sustainability and contemporary redevelopment and renewal projects. The elective will entail visits to or inputs from state agencies, local authorities, developers and planning consultants including the Auckland City Council and the Auckland Regional Council. Among specific sites to be studied would be the Auckland CBD, the Aqueduct Basin, Waitakere, Arataki and Waiheke Island.