Yan Li: Urban morphology, transit-oriented development (TOD), and planning: A case study from Aotearoa New Zealand

Geographical urban morphology provides a systematic framework for urban form research. In particular, it has been applied in planning, architecture, and urban design towards seeking economically efficient, environmentally sustainable, and socially inclusive future built environments. Despite growing interest in transforming the intellectual ideas of urban morphology into operational tools, practical bases are yet to be fully achieved. In connection with an investigation in Auckland, New Zealand, where transit-oriented development (TOD) has been promoted as a planning response to excessive automobile travel and associated urban problems, this project reports the use of urban morphology to reveal the development process of Auckland’s railway station catchment areas. Clarifying the developmental or evolutionary process provides a foundation for future development to build upon, enhancing place identity and meeting future needs. Alongside global morphological and TOD studies, this research contributes to innovative sustainable development in New Zealand and enhances the practicality of morphological methods.