Housing projects bring 143 new homes to Ōtāra and Papatoetoe

The homes will help to house those 654 applicants on the housing register in the Ōtāra-Papatoetoe Local Board area.

Kāinga Ora Regional Director for Counties Manukau, Angela Pearce says, the nine developments were built through strong partnerships with iwi, local developers (Ample Co, Bracewell, Gemscott, Home Construction, Precision, Penny Homes, Ravindra and Snehlata Chandra Partnership) and construction teams, reflecting a significant investment in the future of Ōtāra and Papatoetoe.

“Among these, two standout projects highlight the dedication to creating homes for specific needs—one for elderly residents and the other providing much-needed housing in partnership with local iwi Ngāti Tamaoho,” she adds.

The 57-unit development situated on iwi land (Ngāti Tamaoho), is a testament to the power of iwi-led development and partnership. The project is an example of how iwi, alongside local developers, can deliver housing solutions that meet both community needs and cultural values.

Karleen Puriri, CEO of Ngāti Tamaoho Settlement Trust says it’s been an exceptional partnership between the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, Gemscott Property Developers and Kāinga Ora.

“We’ve tried to create a community feel with this development. The kaumātua (elders) of Ngāti Tamaoho have bestowed the ingoa (name), Te Kupenga (fishing net) as the name of the development and street name,” she said.

57-unit complex in Ōtāra, situated on Ngāti Tamaoho land.

The name represents whānau who will live in these homes and how coming together can weave life and opportunity into a supportive community environment.

The second largest development is a 28-unit complex designed specifically for older residents. This purpose-built complex features adaptable designs that cater to a variety of needs, such as hearing impairments, intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental health challenges, learning disabilities and vision loss.

Seth Bracewell, Project Manager at Bracewell Construction, expressed the company’s pride contributing to the development, noting its positive impact on the local community.

“We are delighted to be part of a project that not only enhances the urban landscape but also meets the needs of senior members in the community. This development is thoughtfully designed and prioritises the comfort, safety, and accessibility of older adults,” he explained.

With these 143 homes now complete, Ōtāra and Papatoetoe have taken a significant step forward. These projects represent more than just buildings; they’re a fresh start for some and a first home for others. As Christmas draws near, Kāinga Ora will turn its attention to supporting customers into settling in and helping them to live well in their new home.

Local leaders, schools, service providers and community members attended a series of viewing days for the new homes, with feedback being overwhelmingly positive. Residents praised the spacious layouts, high-quality design, and the professionalism and respect demonstrated by our build partners throughout the construction process.

28-unit complex designed for older residents in Papatoetoe.