A new housing development in Tauranga’s east is crucial to address the city’s shortage of 5000 homes. The Tauranga City Commission is urging for a quick rezoning of land for the Te Tumu development at the eastern end of Pāpāmoa. However, the project has been delayed and appears to be years away from development.
Despite the challenges, the commission has set a deadline of early 2026 for the rezoning of the 760 hectares of land. The development, identified as a priority urban growth area, could provide homes for 15,500 people.
The rezoning process for Te Tumu started in 2017 with a target of housing development by 2021. However, the project encountered various delays due to differing opinions among Māori landowners, changes in national policy, and financial challenges. The report also highlighted the importance of the Kaituna Overflow stormwater management project, which is not due for completion until after 2034.
The commission suggested partnering with the central government to fund the necessary infrastructure. Another funding option is an infrastructure funding and financing (IFF) levy, a government loan repaid through council rates over a fixed period.
The landowners, who have been working with the council since 2004, are eager for the plan change to be initiated. The land is owned by the Te Tumu Kaituna 14 Trust, three other trusts, Catalyst (Highrise) Ltd, Ford Land Holdings, Tauranga City Council, and Western Bay of Plenty District Council.
The commission also emphasized the importance of balancing housing supply with environmental protection. Regular updates on the Te Tumu works will be provided to the council.
