Cones more than just decoration

Cones on the roof of Sylvia Park are designed to reflect Auckland's landscape. An artist's impression (below) shows how the mall is expected to look once it is finished

Cones have taken shape on top of Kiwi Income Property Trust's new Sylvia Park shopping centre at Mt Wellington.

The roof cones were designed to hide equipment on top of the buildings but also to reflect aspects of Auckland's topography.

Architect Euan McKellar said they disguised plant and equipment units, including air conditioners, but were also designed to reflect Auckland's volcanic features.

The trust is due to open Sylvia Park's first stage, with The Warehouse, Foodtown and 50 shops, this winter.

A Pak 'n Save and another 50 shops will be opened in the spring. Other stages are due to open next year.