Funding to unlock land for new homes in Waipukurau

A long-held community vision for new homes in the heart of Central Hawke’s Bay will become reality through Government investment in infrastructure in the area known as the old hospital site in Waipukurau.

Central Hawke’s Bay District Council will receive $10.9 million from the Government's Infrastructure Acceleration Fund to unlock this previously inaccessible development land for much-needed new homes.

Crucial infrastructure work including transport improvements, kilometres of new pipeline for wastewater and water supply, a new water reservoir, and major stormwater upgrades is planned, enabling up to 950 homes to be built in the centre of Waipukurau on 50 hectares that have been zoned residential for more than two decades. The area - also known as the Waipukurau South Growth Precinct - will support a range of dwelling types from retirement housing to larger blocks open to the market, and smaller homes.

Council has taken a strong leadership and facilitation role in the development and has worked closely with the Heretaunga - Tamatea Settlement Trust and private landowners of the site as the funding application has proceeded.

“For years we’ve shared the community’s frustration that this prime residential land has sat empty while housing is so scarce," says Mayor Alex Walker. “Now, truly smart growth – one of our strategic priorities - has become possible in the heart of Waipukurau. A mix of housing for whānau, retirees, established residents and people new to Central Hawke’s Bay will become an exciting reality thanks to this Government funding, landowners and our partners.”

The Heretaunga-Tamatea Settlement Trust, a strategic partner in the development area, echoed Mayor Walker's sentiments, noting how exciting this news is for the people of Tamatea - Central Hawke’s Bay.

"For us, this project represents a new partnership in practice of two parties who share an intergenerational horizon for Tamatea, and creates unique opportunities for investment and housing outcomes in the widest sense," says Darryn Russell, Chief Executive of the Heretaunga-Tamatea Settlement Trust. "We’re incredibly positive about our future together."

The community is invited to a preview of the developments on site at the Pakeke Centre on Pōrangahau Road on Saturday 26 November between 9-11am.

Note: The Government’s Infrastructure Acceleration Fund (IAF) invests in infrastructure that supports new housing developments in areas that face the biggest housing supply and affordability issues throughout Aotearoa New Zealand.

17 November 2022

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