New website launched for proposed Okura development

23 March, 2017

New website launched for proposed Okura development

A proposed development north of Auckland featuring residential housing, parks and a 2km long coastal reserve is now the subject of a new information website, launched today by Todd Property.

The website https://okuraresidential.co.nz/ has been created to provide the public with detailed information about the proposed master planned community for Okura, where Todd Property owns 130ha of land.

“Understandably, the proposal has generated significant public interest and we are keen to ensure the public is fully informed,” said Todd Property Managing Director Evan Davies.

“Our proposal for sustainable development at Okura would provide real benefits for Auckland, including new housing, a significant expansion to one of our greatest parks, as well as guaranteed public access to the coastline for future generations to enjoy.”

The new website features videos, graphics and photography – bringing to life a development which would set aside more than 40 per cent of the land (55ha) for public parks and green open space.

If approved, it would significantly expand the neighbouring Long Bay Regional Park, and allow for the creation of between 750 and 1000 new family homes. It would also add to the New Zealand walking trail, Te Araroa, and help to ensure the future protection of the Long Bay-Okura Marine Reserve.

“The protection of the marine reserve has been a priority for us from day one, and that’s why we’ve been working with NIWA for three years to understand the potential impact of construction on the environment,” Mr Davies said. “Through extensive research, NIWA has concluded that the development that’s been proposed would cause no degradation to the biodiversity of the marine reserve.”

There is an alternative outcome for the land – a historic subdivision which allows for the development of a series of high-value, low-access lifestyle blocks. It would see permanent loss of public access to the riparian margin, and loss of the opportunity to extend the regional park.

Last year, Todd Property presented its proposal to the expert Auckland Unitary Plan Independent Hearings Panel, which recommended the development be allowed to proceed – a decision endorsed by Council officers. The Council’s governing body then rejected both recommendations.

Todd Property has now appealed to the Environment Court seeking to have the Panel’s recommendation upheld.

“We are confident that our proposal will result in the best use of the land at Okura and the best outcome for the people of Auckland,” said Evan Davies.

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