About Us

Our History

Greater Auckland is an analysis and advocacy organisation focused on transport and urban issues in Tāmaki Makaurau/ Auckland, New Zealand.

From our origins in 2008 as ‘Transport Blog’, we evolved into a formal society under the name Greater Auckland in 2015, and in 2025 we became a registered charity.

For nearly two decades, we have led evidence-based conversations on the shape of our city, and we continue to play a significant role in advancing the wonderful city we call home.

Our Vision

Auckland is a great city – with immense potential to be an even greater place to live, move around, and connect with all the good things of life.

A sustainable and equitable city, one that’s easy, safe and affordable to get around, with an abundance of great housing options.

A prosperous and accessible metropolis in which to live, work, learn and play, made up of well-resourced and well-connected communities.

A healthy and resilient city, where we all feel at home in our stunning natural environment.

A creative and caring city that’s inviting and exciting for residents and visitors alike, where we can all enjoy a fulfilling life and contribute to a better legacy for the future.

We’re here to raise the quality of analysis and discussion about how we get there. Let’s go.

For more about our vision, see here.

Our Team

Matt Lowrie – Director and Spokesperson

Matt has been writing for Greater Auckland since December 2010, contributing close to 4000 posts and frequently speaking to media about urban issues. Outside Greater Auckland, Matt works as a data analyst in the insurance industry. He lives in West Auckland with his wife and two young children.

Patrick Reynolds – Director and Spokesperson

Patrick rejoined Greater Auckland in 2024, after four years on the board of Waka Kotahi/ the New Zealand Transport Agency. Patrick serves on the Council’s City Centre Advisory Panel, and is a director of Urban Auckland. Outside of urbanism and governance, Patrick is an architectural photographer and artist. He is at work on a book about the architecture of Dunedin, with writer John Walsh, for Massey University Press.

Jolisa Gracewood – Editor

Jolisa’s background is in non-profit advocacy and communications, putting a PhD in Comparative Literature to practical use. She has lived in small towns and large cities in Aotearoa, North America, and Japan, and is a fan of places that make space for children, bicycles, and trees.

Connor Sharp – Writer

Connor holds a MSc in Geography, and is interested in the relationship of urban spaces to policy, politics, and people. He is at work on a book about the ups and downs of Auckland Light Rail. Connor has experience in campaigning and advocacy, and would love to see a greener, more liveable Auckland.

Scott Caldwell – Writer

Scott focuses on the intersection of housing affordability, climate, and infrastructure, and is a spokesperson for the Coalition for More Homes.

Other people contribute from time to time, and we are always open to guest posts. If you have an idea to share, drop us a line.