Street Smarts

Every day, we draw on the latest street furniture and urban design thinking from New Zealand and across the globe. Discover how to create unbeatable outdoor spaces that help improve daily lives in a fast-changing world.

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A safe seat: can buddy benches banish bullying and build better communities?

Rates of bullying in New Zealand are alarming compared to other countries – with roughly a fifth of NZ students saying they are frequently bullied. In Australia, more than one in five students reported feeling like an outsider and awkward at school, while 16 per cent said they were lonely. Across the globe, a simple […]

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The Growth of Community Gardens

Are you looking to promote healthy lifestyles in your community, all the while encouraging locals to get outside and connect with each other? A community garden could be the answer. Bursting with character and raw beauty, each community garden is unique, and holds a special place in the hearts of those who contribute to its […]

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The new language of flexible urban design

Park, plaza or promenade … every public space varies in size, stakeholders and purpose. Flexibility is today’s necessity and modular outdoor furniture is answering the call. Our rapidly urbanising global population demands new thinking about traditional open spaces. Fortunately, a new generation of incredibly adaptable street furniture creates exciting opportunities. Italian company and Urban Effects […]

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People power: urban street furniture gets real

Great public spaces have been described as “the living room of the city” – and there’s a growing demand to furnish them more thoughtfully. In overcrowded cities, people need public spaces more than ever to connect, belong, unwind and enjoy nature. Often underestimated, the furniture we choose for those spaces has a huge impact on […]

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5 Reasons Why Scooter Racks Rock In NZ!

They’re often overshadowed by their larger, pedalled counterparts, however scooters are back on the scene, and they’re rearing to take over the streets of New Zealand! Every mode of transport deserves to be parked in a safe and secure spot, and with the growing popularity of scooters, it’s time to take charge and provide scooter […]

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National Tree Day: Arbor Day

Where would we be today without trees? Nowhere. For as long as we can remember, trees have given us most of our vital requirements as humans- oxygen, food, protection and shelter. Not to mention something beautiful to look at. Now it’s our turn to look after them. Through New Zealand’s National Tree Day, also known […]

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The Beauty of a Public Barbeque!

The sun is shining, friends and family are in sight- it’s the perfect afternoon. If there’s one common theme in the perfect afternoon, it’s the presence of an outdoor barbeque. Meat eater or not, there’s something everyone can throw on the barbie, and nothing can top the taste. Whether it’s beach side, at the local […]

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Transform Sport & Recreational Clubs in your Community

The whistle blows, the siren sounds and the crowd cheers. It’s the end of another game, but just the beginning of the ongoing benefits for the community. Sport has the power to break down cultural and social barriers, and unite a community in more ways than one. It encourages social activity, good sportsmanship and an […]

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Buying Guide: Public Litter Bins

Public Litter Bins: The best option for every space To the average person, a public bin is a simple convenience. It’s the helping hand that should always be present in the right place, at the right time. While tossing our rubbish in a bin may seem like a basic task, without the right tools, the […]

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Why should we try to create great public spaces?

Although they may not seem like it in some cases, public spaces are often the centrepiece of any city or town. Without us realising it, they can have a substantial affect on our physical, psychological, and emotional well-being. This is why its important to create public spaces that really work to improve these aspects of […]

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The Metalco lookbook is here!

Direct from Italy, we have your passport to the latest European style trends and inspiration in street furniture. And we’re bringing it direct to you with a special Inspiration Roadshow! Metalco’s newest lookbook is here and it’s filled with 1000 pages of gorgeous designs that are sure to spark incredible ideas for your latest landscape […]

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