In the world of architectural design, fences are often boundaries or security solutions. However, with clever design, a fence can become an opportunity for creativity, placemaking and visual storytelling. At Sylvia Park, a bustling Auckland hub of transport, retail and now residential life, a new custom DuraPanel fence installation is proving to be a defining feature. This fencing project brings together safety and design to create a walkway that feels bright, thoughtful and inviting. With more foot traffic expected between a new apartment development and the shopping centre, the fence needed to frame the space and offer a defined, colourful connection. “This wasn’t just a functional installation,” says Rachel Koks, National Partnerships Manager at Boundaryline. “It was about making a space that people enjoyed walking through.”
Previously, this stretch of Sylvia Park was flanked by standard mesh fencing, a purely functional barrier that offered no visual appeal or sense of place. But with the area evolving into a key pedestrian link, the opportunity arose to inject life and personality into what had been a forgotten edge.
The chosen solution was a custom DuraPanel Axis fence, designed first and foremost to provide safety alongside the active railway line. With its sturdy aluminium construction, it creates a secure barrier between pedestrians and the tracks while still feeling light and open. “We looked at the buildings and surroundings,” says Yoko Tanaka of Boffa Miskell. “One side of the centre is dominated by red, orange, and yellow. The other, blue, green, and yellow. We wanted the fencing to reflect that, so we created a colour transition across the fins.” Wrapped fins shift in colour as you move past, picking up the tones of the surrounding buildings. One side draws from reds and oranges, the other from blues and greens. The subtle gradient reflects the energy of the site and makes a daily walk feel more engaging.
“Safety was crucial,” says Yoko. “We knew you, we knew your product, how it works. Engineering approvals, we knew that would be easy.” The custom Durapanel fencing system is also highly adaptable. Modular components allow for easy maintenance and future upgrades, and several sections were pre-fabricated off-site to minimise disruption. From a delivery standpoint, it’s an efficient, scalable model. From a design perspective, it’s proof that prefab doesn’t have to mean generic.
With KiwiRail’s tight access windows and fixed apartment launch dates, the project called for strong coordination. Visual ID brought the vibrant fin wrapping to life, and Greenscene NZ added planting that softened the urban edge. Everyone involved pulled together and the result was a smooth install, finished on time and on budget. Trust had a key role. “Because of Boundaryline’s track record, we had confidence with you to start with,” Yoko explains. “That’s the reason we engaged you to discuss the design. Trust was a key factor.” This vibrant installation is a great example of how our custom DuraPanel fencing can meet challenging timelines and aesthetic goals without compromising on quality.
What was once a quiet edge of the shopping centre is now a vibrant new walkway. This project proves that fencing can frame a space, guide people and even inspire. If you’re looking for a fencing solution that combines safety, style, and smart design, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team. Whether it’s an off the shelf system or a fully custom concept like this amazing project, we’re here to help you bring your vision to life. Give us a call at 0800 003 006 or reach out via our Contact Form. We’ll help you find the perfect fit for your project.
Project Details
Products: Custom DuraPanel Axis
Landscape and Fencing Contractor: GreensceneNZ
Environmental Consultant: Boffa Miskell
Photography: Wide Photography
Decal Wrapping: Visual ID
View our gallery of images below.