175 New Homes Approved as Whakatāne District Council Rezones Land for Housing

The Whakatāne District Council has announced the approval of a key plan change 8 that will see 15 hectares of land near Huna Road rezoned for housing development. The change is set to become fully operative by the end of the month.

The plan will enable the construction of 175 new homes, including papakāinga and medium-density housing. The land involved includes the site of the popular Julian’s Berry Farm and neighbouring properties at 234 and 234A State Highway 30, and 30A Huna Road.

“With steady population growth over the last decade, we’ve needed to find smart and sustainable ways to increase our housing supply,” said Nicolas Woodley, the Council’s Manager for Policy, Planning and Consents Compliance. “Plan Change 8 supports that need by allowing a mix of housing types and a coordinated approach to infrastructure, subject to obtaining the necessary resource consents.”

Originally proposed in early 2024, the plan received 169 submissions. Several concerns were addressed through pre-hearing discussions, with eight submitters presenting at a formal hearing in December before a panel of independent commissioners. Final decisions were made in February 2025.

As no appeals were received during the final submission period in April, the Council confirmed the plan’s operative status on Thursday.

“The proposal reflects collaboration between private landowners, Kawarehe Trust, Council, and government agencies to develop an integrated, culturally inclusive neighbourhood,” Woodley added.

Kawarehe Trust Chair and spokesperson Erin Te Pou welcomed the outcome, highlighting the opportunity to provide much-needed housing on whenua Māori.

The rezoning changes will be formally included in the District Plan and take effect on 26 May.