Not a Chinatown: A mixed-use building for Chinese cultural development in Newmarket

Abstract

What makes 'Chinatown,' Chinatown and what is its relevance in Auckland's context today? The Chinese first arrived in New Zealand during the Gold Rush in 1866. Since then, the Chinese have struggled to make a place in New Zealand for themselves where they can call 'home.' From the very beginning they encountered many barriers, one of which was racial discrimination. These initial racist ideologies and associated ideas of economic threat that they posed to the Europeans were in place well before the Chinese had even arrived; having spread by word of mouth along the Pacific Rim by travelling European miners. This continued as they became the first non-Moari and non-European to settle in New Zealand in comparatively large numbers. Many have since adapted and adopted western traditions in order to conform and fit in. By conforming and following trends the Chinese strived to feel connected and achieve a sense of belonging. Europeans were regarded as the superior power, and children were encouraged to speak in English by their parents. In their attempt to be accepted, conform and fit in, the Chinese have lost many aspects of their culture and sense of identity. An issue raised in the recent years has been the need and relevance of an official Chinatown in Auckland. Chinatown is an idea that was initially introduced into countries as a commercial hub and tourist attraction, but it is also an attempt to reclaim and re-establish the lost cultural identity of immigrants. However, throughout time the cultural identity of the Chinese in New Zealand has changed, and merely replicating a part of China in Auckland would not be suitable, as it would not be catering to the now, local Chinese. This thesis will investigate the influence of new established cultures in Auckland, in particular that of Chinese communities, while covering issues posed by rapid migration and globalisation that have resulted in cultural displacement and in turn, loss of cultural identity and local character. It will look at the relevance of an official Chinatown in Auckland and the existing examples of Chinatowns set up around the world. These include Melbourne and Sydney, which are located in geographically and demographically similar situations as Auckland, as well as successful Chinatowns such as San Francisco. The purpose of this design thesis is to create a place that addresses the needs of the Chinese community in Auckland today, to assist in finding and creating their own cultural identity relevant to today's society. In doing so, the idea of 'Chinatown,' becomes much more than just a tourist attraction, but rather a place that fosters and supports growth of the local Chinese society.