Lights on - and square's upgrade is done

The lighting around St Patrick's Cathedral is part of a project which the city council says has created a more attractive and safer environment by day and night. Photo / Sarah Ivey

The final feature of the Auckland Council's $9.2 million upgrade of St Patrick's Square has been completed.

Lighting for the exterior of St Patrick's Cathedral has been switched on, marking an end to the wider St Patrick's Square rejuvenation.

The council says the improvements create a safer and more attractive day and night environment.

Lighting of trees, artwork and a water feature was part of the plan.

The cathedral's feature lighting was part of the original concept design for the square, but was delayed for a year because of lack of money.

Cathedral administrator Monsignor Bernard Kiely said the first stage of the project was the restoration of the cathedral, completed in 2007.

The council is now considering other surrounding buildings.

A council statement said: "Future developments around the square include the likely extension to Liston House and the conservation and the renovation of the presbytery.

"The council has an agreement with the Roman Catholic Bishop of the Diocese of Auckland to swap the public land required for these developments with other land ... which is to be used for public open space.

"We will continue to work with the diocese on this project."