Meet Ravi Krishnan, CEO, MRCB International

What’s your role with The Symphony Centre development?

As CEO of MRCB International I oversee all aspects of The Symphony Centre development, ensuring the strategic alignment, financial oversight, and successful delivery of the project.

My role involves steering the team towards our vision, coordinating with stakeholders and ensuring the project, on all aspects, is developed to our high standards. We as the developer have a deep responsibility to deliver this precinct to the highest standards, ensuring it serves Tāmaki Makaurau and is enjoyed by the future generations.

What’s your background?

I have extensive experience in real estate, construction, and law. I started with a law degree followed by an MBA. I previously served as the general manager of one of Australia's largest publicly listed home builders, before moving into large scale property and infrastructure development. Across my career I have been deeply involved in every aspect of the property industry, from design and development to construction, sales, and marketing.

What’s the best way to describe a Transport-Oriented Development?

Simply put, a TOD integrates residential, commercial and recreational spaces all within walking distance to public transport networks.

What are the key benefits of a TOD?

The benefits of Transport-Oriented Developments are multifaceted.

Primarily, developments that are intrinsically connected with transport networks promote sustainable living. By having lifestyle amenities, working spaces, residential, and transport hubs integrated, it reduces the need for cars, increases the use of public transport, and enhances walkability of urban areas.

An offshoot of this is that these hubs then generate dynamic, mixed-used communities that are anchored in live, work, play - propelling economic support for local and neighbouring businesses - and creating a precinct that becomes a vibrant destination for residents, patrons and visitors alike. 

Why is Auckland a compelling investment for MRCB?

Auckland is the economic epicentre of New Zealand. Its geographic location, robust economy and multi-cultural population make it a preferred investment location for MRCB.

The opportunity with the new CRL and Te Waihorotiu Station presented a unique opportunity for MRCB to give to Auckland what we have given to other major cities around the world - a world-class precinct that rises from a main public transport station and creates a dynamic, vibrant and prosperous inner city community.

MRCB in Malaysia are market leaders in TODs, our extensive global expertise, experience and partnerships position us to deliver this project to a world class level. 

How will this development compare to other major urban regeneration projects on the international stage?

The Symphony Centre is poised to set a new benchmark for urban regeneration, combining world-leading design, globally recognised sustainability principles and seamless connectivity.

The Symphony Centre’s unique identity is what truly sets it apart from other major urban regeneration projects. The integration of culture and storytelling has been essential right from the start, acknowledging Mana Whenua and the land’s history to give Auckland a landmark development that harmoniously connects the past, present and future.

Although it is only a fraction of the size of some of the TOD precinct’s we deliver in Kuala Lumpur - KL Sentral spans 72 acres vs the one acre The Symphony Centre encompasses - the same school of thought is applied at each and every point of the development: considerations of the community must be at the forefront of decision making.

As the developer, MRCB has a deep respect for the history, legacy and significance of Aotea Arts Quarter and we want to ensure that this development truly benefits the community who call it home as well as inner city patrons and the wider Auckland public. 

What are the critical success factors for this project?

People and what they bring to the table will be critical to the delivery and success of The Symphony Centre.

MRCB with its global TOD experience and RCP with its delivery capabilities will be key functions of this project. However we also rely on the design expertise and innovation from Woods Bagot, the partnership with Eke Panuku and the continued support from city stakeholders and the wider Aotea Arts Quarter businesses.

Describe The Symphony Centre development in 5 words.

Innovative, Sustainable, Legacy, Community, Vibrant