The expansive 90-hectare project is the first large-scale project of its kind for Feilding and addresses an urgent need for quality housing. The development is set to provide over 600 homes with the potential for a retirement village and local amenities. Awa Park at Maewa offers views of the picturesque Ruahine ranges and is situated on the northern side of Feilding, just 15 minutes’ drive from Palmerston North.
The Manawatū District Council’s Housing Action Plan highlighted the urgency for housing, driven by a high demand for labour and a low unemployment rate. Despite the population growing at twice the national average, the rate of residential construction has not kept pace. Additionally, major infrastructure projects in the Manawatū such as the Ōhakea Air Base Expansion only adds to the housing demand in the region.
“We recognise the need for more housing in the Manawatū District to attract people and foster economic growth,” said Mayor of Manawatū District Council, Helen Worboys. “We are thrilled to be collaborating with Kaha Ake on the development of over 600 homes in Feilding. This initiative will help boost our district’s housing stock and contribute to the region’s continued prosperity.”
The development has been named ‘Awa Park at Maewa’ in consultation with Ngāti Kauwhata. The word ‘Awa’ meaning ‘stream or river’ pays homage to the stream that flows through the heart of the site, which will be a significant amenity for future residents. Ngāti Kauwhata, Council, and Kaha Ake have a shared commitment to the restoration of the stream’s riparian corridor. ‘Maewa’ is the name gifted by Ngāti Kauwhata and ratified by council to refer to what was previously known as Precinct 4.
Resource Consent for Stage One has been granted for 138 lots, with the first titles anticipated in early 2025. The vision for Awa Park is a comprehensively planned residential community that stands the test of time. A highly accessible, walkable, and engaging neighbourhood extending along the reaches of Mangakino Stream.
The Kaha Ake partnership is aimed at advancing land development projects throughout New Zealand. By combining long-term financial support with extensive development capabilities, Kaha Ake seeks to address the complex challenges faced by the New Zealand property sector while enhancing the lives of its residents.
“Investment in provincial New Zealand towns is important, as we believe these locations present exciting opportunities for people to live and work. Strengthening local communities generates social and economic benefits both regionally and nationally,” says Katie Dean, NZ Super Fund Portfolio Manager and Director of Kaha Ake.
The $65 billion NZ Super Fund is a global investment fund that was established by the New Zealand Government to help pre-fund universal superannuation. A long-term, growth-oriented investor, the Fund has returned 10% p.a. since its inception in 2003. It currently has more than $6 billion invested in New Zealand, including significant stakes in Kaingaroa Timberlands, Datacom, Fidelity Life, and NZ Gourmet, as well as investments in various NZX-listed companies. For more information, please visit nzsuperfund.nz.
Classic Group is a New Zealand owned and operated, vertically integrated property development company with over 27 years of experience in the industry. Having built over 6,500 homes and developed more than 4,000 residential sections, Classic Group brings a wealth of expertise and a strong track record to the partnership. For more information, please visit classicgroup.nz.
If you are interested in joining our database for further updates about the development, you can register your interest at awapark.co.nz.
Pictured: Dennis Emery, Chairman of Ngāti Kauwhata, alongside Helen Worboys, Mayor of Manawatū District, and William Dorset from Classic Developments, during the recent groundbreaking ceremony.
