Boosting the supply of affordable housing in Christchurch

The 36,800m2 parcel of land has been purchased as part of a Kāinga Ora urban development programme, which aims to provide a range of housing options at different price points so that more Kiwis can own their own home.

The purchase has been made through the Kāinga Ora Land Programme, which seeks to enable different types of housing in an area where the private market may struggle to deliver the housing needed.

Kāinga Ora Regional Director Canterbury, Liz Krause says the housing that people could potentially purchase under the land programme includes smaller homes, in areas where the majority of housing has traditionally consisted of larger homes at price points that are out of reach for many.

“The purchase of the site will enable developers to provide housing options for people at all stages of life, from first home buyers right through to those looking to downsize in their older years, improving affordability for people wanting to live in the Halswell area.

The purchase enables Kāinga Ora to begin to explore options for developing the land and the mix of housing that could be incorporated on the site.

“Although early in the planning process, it is anticipated the site will be developed to include a range of housing options at different price points, as well as some public housing. Kāinga Ora is also in initial discussions with Paenga Kupenga (the economic arm of local mana whenua) about partnering to investigate opportunities to enable affordable housing for Māori.

“Halswell is an ideally-located suburb and for those who will eventually live at 66a Quaifes Road, their new home will be close to shops, healthcare providers, employment, education, public transport, and is within walking/cycling distance to many amenities,” says Liz.

Kāinga Ora will begin to engage with iwi, partners, stakeholders, and the community to develop plans for the site.

The land at 66a Quaifes Road, Halswell was purchased for $6.5 million (plus GST, if any), following the Council declaring the land surplus to its requirements.