Stonefields township springs out of old Mt Wellington quarry

Andrew Stringer of Landco says the name has a local connection and recognises the site's identity. Picture / Brett Phibbs

The old Winstone's quarry in Mt Wellington and site of the largest residential development in Auckland City is to be named Stonefields, befitting the new suburb's middle-to-upper-income aspirations.

The name Stonefields comes from the Maori stone fields at the base of Mt Wellington, one of which is owned and preserved by Auckland City Council.

The stone field garden system used heated stones to warm the earth and allow crops to grow in cool temperatures.

Stone is at the heart of the concept for the 110ha site, says Andrew Stringer, general manager of Landco, the developer preparing the site for 2900 low-rise houses, terrace units and apartment blocks housing 6000 people in the next decade.

A shopping centre the size of St Heliers, a primary school for 600 pupils and offices will also be on the site.

Mr Stringer said the name had a local connection that recognised the site's identity and research had found it was the preferred choice from several suggested names.

Kate Sutton, chairwoman of the Tamaki community board, said Stonefields was suitable for the developer's plans but it might be a bit "fluffy" to locals, known for a down-to-earth approach.

Greg Nikoloff, of College Rd Residents' Group, said Stonefields was better than Mt Wellington quarry but still lacking historical context.

Landco's plan for Stonefields is on display at the Auckland Netball Centre, Morrin Rd, from 10am to 3pm.