Written by Simon Reiher | Director | Cato Bolam Consultants
If you are interested in residential and commercial property in Whangarei City you need to check the higher density opportunities in the recently released Whangarei District Urban Plan change decision, which is now operative.
The new urban development rules in the Whangarei District Plan increase the options available for housing development in Whangarei City and suburbs.
There are many large sections in Whangarei with only one house on them. Many community retail sections sit underutilised with an old shop or workshop. These areas have historically represented the untapped potential for development in Whangarei and there has been stagnation through the lack of options for feasible development. The new planning rules benefit most of the city, including outer suburbs. These areas are now zoned for higher development providing opportunities for apartment complexes, terrace housing and multi-unit housing.
The economics of higher density urban development in Whangarei has historically been less attractive than greenfield, vacant lot, development on the urban fringes. We see this is now changing, with high housing demand pushing the good quality housing market up to a level where excellent profits are now achievable.
Development within the “Medium Density environment” now has an easier consenting pathway through Council. Areas such as Rumanga, Avenues, Regent, Kensington, Otangarei, Tikipunga and Kamo are zoned Medium Density Residential, and per the table below, these areas have potential for units down to 50m² and sections down to 320m².
Redevelopment of Whangarei’s underused land will revitalise the city, attract further investment, visitors and residents. A more cosmopolitan and vibrant city, will promote the cycle of development and investment.
At Cato Bolam Consultants we have extensive experience delivering the full-service development and project management package of architecture, planning, engineering and surveying for urban developments, large and small. Whether you are a first time developer or a seasoned professional, we have the proven track record of partnering with our clients to design and deliver successful urban projects from options analysis, feasibility concepts to consent and completion. Locally our Cato Bolam team have the experience to help you realise your vision, both in terms of financial returns and creating great places for today and future generations.
Contact our Whangarei office to discuss your options and the economics of land development within the urban centres of Whangarei.
The new zones can be viewed at the following link, Whangarei District Plan – New Zones
Examples of the types of Concept Options our Architecture teams can provide for your property development and the new zones and minimum lot sizes for Whangarei’s urban areas are outlined below.
