New state homes planned for Strathmore Park, Wellington

The 31 homes currently on the site have reached the end of their life as social housing, with the proposed new development to include a mix of two-, three- and four-bedroom homes. Subject to approvals, construction could begin in early 2028.

The new homes will be delivered as part of the Kāinga Ora renewals programme – the most significant upgrade of our state houses ever undertaken in this country.

Over half of our 78,000 homes will be extensively renovated or replace over the next 30 years, providing better quality social housing for New Zealanders in need. The programme will see around 2,000 older homes replaced or upgraded each year over the next few years.

Sarah Willson, Regional Director Greater Wellington, says the proposed new plans for Ngatiapa Street are the most cost-effective way to deliver new homes on the site and will respond to demand for family homes in the area.

“This proposal will deliver more of the homes our tenants need, including some larger family homes, while ensuring we achieve the best value for money.

“While it's taken time to finalise plans for this site, our focus has been on achieving the best outcome for the community and enabling new social housing to be delivered in Strathmore Park.

"Demolition is an early step in preparing the site for redevelopment. After it's complete, we’ll continue detailed design of the new homes and we expect to apply for resource consent next year. If this is approved, we'll also appoint a contractor to build the homes before construction can begin,” Ms Willson says.

She says contractors will aim to minimise disruption while demolition work, which will take about six weeks, is underway. After demolition, the site will be secured and regular maintenance scheduled to keep it tidy, ahead of building work starting.

“We appreciate the community’s continued understanding as we’ve worked through next steps for the site and we’ll continue to provide updates as we make progress,” Ms Willson says.