Fast-track approval for 250 new homes in Wānaka

The Mt Iron Junction Housing Scheme near Wānaka has been granted Fast-track approval, bringing 250 new homes, a childcare centre and two recreational reserves to the 5.98-hectare site, says Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop.

This is the 35th project approved through the Fast-track process.

Mt Iron Junction Limited lodged its application in February this year, with approval being

granted five months after the appointment of an expert panel.

“This is exactly what Fast-track is designed to do – get projects moving that will deliver more homes, jobs and economic opportunities for New Zealanders,” Mr Bishop says.

“The scheme, to be built on the Wānaka-Luggate Highway, will provide a range of housing options, with one, two and three-bedroom homes, helping meet the significant demand from people wanting to live and work in the Wānaka area.

“As well as providing much-needed additional housing, the project is predicted to contribute $86 million to the local economy, supporting jobs both during construction and once the development is complete.

“Importantly, 13 of the new homes will be provided to the Queenstown Lakes Community Housing Trust for affordable housing – which the expert panel highlighted as a key benefit.

“The panel also accepted the applicant’s proposal to limit visitor accommodation to 20 per cent of the development, with those properties able to be used for short-term stays for no more than 120 nights a year. This will help ensure these are primarily homes for people to live in, rather than holiday accommodation.

“The development has a three waters strategy covering water, wastewater and stormwater, which the expert panel and local councils were satisfied was appropriate, subject to final design and engineering.

“With the new community sitting alongside the Wānaka-Luggate Highway, the expert panel has made safe access a priority, with well-lit walking and cycling links to be provided along parts of State Highway 84 and State Highway 6, connecting future residents with nearby schools, shops, workplaces and recreation.”

The project will be delivered in five stages over 10 years, with new homes coming online progressively as the development is built.