New lookout for Baxter’s Knob
‘‘It’s going to tell the story of the place and the evolving subdivision.’’
Baxter’s Knob in Aotea is getting a new lookout.
Porirua City Council landscape architect Andrew Gray said the theme of the lookout was time and change.
‘‘It’s going to tell the story of the place and the evolving subdivision.’’
Gray said the hill was always identified as an important landmark in the development of the Aotea Block.
In 2011 the developer’s plans for the subdivision around the area were agreed and included a road up to the area around the small knoll.
A public reserve was proposed to protect Baxter’s Knob as open space.
He said the knoll provided stunning views up the coast to Pukerua Bay, over the Porirua Harbour and south to Mount Kaukau.
‘‘There’s even a carpark for people who don’t want to get out of the car.’’
The plans for the lookout began in 2012, at the same time as earthworks for the subdivision began, and Gray captured a 360 degree photo of the area.
He said the panoramic view became a key part of the lookout con- cept and would be used as a series of photo panels at the completed lookout.
‘‘It means future home owners will be able to see where their houses were.’’
The lookout will also provide an elevated view point of the Transmission Gully motorway route around the back of eastern Porirua.
Gray said the photo would also provide an important before and after comparison view for this important milestone in the development within the city.
A time capsule, containing thoughts and aspirations of the residents of Aotea and people involved with its development, will be buried under the lookout.
Construction of the lookout will start in the next few months.