New partnership aims to deliver much needed homes for Ohakune

Plans for the number and type of homes on the site are still being developed but are a mix of affordable, public and workers housing.

This programme of work has been made possible through the successful application by Ruapehu District Council for Infrastructure Reference Group Funding from the Government. This funding enables the planning and development of key infrastructure to provide capacity for new homes and amenities.

Ruapehu Mayor Weston Kirton expressed the Council's enthusiasm for participating in the project and being able to contribute constructively to tackling the diverse housing challenges faced by Ohakune.

“This housing project provided an opportunity for Ruapehu District Council to use its land holdings to partner with Government and Ngāti Rangi, a great example of how we can all work together to help resolve the housing crisis, and build a more prosperous and resilient district.”

Graeme Broderick, Kāinga Ora Regional Director Taranaki, Whanganui and Manawatu says the partnership is a big step forward towards addressing the housing need in the region.

“The need for housing has increased steadily over the years in Ohakune and we are pleased that, through this partnership, we will be able to provide a home for so many families close to schools, services and amenities.”

Helen Leahy, Pou Ārahi (Chief Executive) for Nga Waihua o Paerangi, notes that the increasing unaffordability for Ruapehu residents relative to local incomes is a major concern for Ngāti Rangi.

“Our priority has been to do all that we can to support our whānau to access safe, dry and affordable housing as a basic human right,” says Helen Leahy. “Our commitment to Teitei Drive is in line with our wider strategy, He Pā Tū, He Pā Ora, whānau thriving in communities of wellbeing.”

Stage 1 of the project is lodging a resource consent application for a subdivision of 44 lots and infrastructure in the coming weeks to make the land ready for future housing to be built. Stage 2 is yet to be planned.

The work for the proposed plans includes upgrading and creating improved water services, transport connections around and within the site, and shared green spaces. This will help create much needed homes and improve infrastructure for surrounding sites to help enable potential housing.

Ruapehu District Council and Kāinga Ora are committed to keep the community updated on plans and a community drop in session will be organised in the next few weeks.