Abstract: Continued population growth in Auckland is expected over the coming decades; a new planning framework proposed for Auckland seeks to accommodate most new dwellings in the existing urban area, in part by encouraging higher-density developments on larger parcels of land. Given the size of existing parcels in urban areas, amalgamation and redevelopment will be needed in order to increase dwelling density. Land amalgamation is a fundamental step in the development process that allows for the unpicking of the existing ‘sticky’ property boundaries. While there is much published research on the amalgamation process as part of urban redevelopment projects, there is little discourse on small-scale amalgamation in relation to residential properties, and no existing analysis/research on amalgamation in Auckland. Through spatial analysis this research identified that between 2004 and 2014 a total of 1,202 residential property amalgamations took place; half of which were located in the former Auckland City Council area. Analysis of ownership, post amalgamation development, and development typology was also undertaken. Semi-structured interviews with participants in the amalgamation process were sought in order to explore the process and barriers, with findings indicating that undertaking amalgamations can be difficult. If current planning rules have not been conducive to amalgamation, will the proposed rules encourage more amalgamation? Can Auckland get density through amalgamation or are the hurdles too high to overcome?