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Te Oranga o Te Iwi:
About Te Mataora - A place for generations
What is Te Mataora?
Te Mataora is a proposed housing and community development initiative being led by Ngāti Hine Health Trust (NHHT) in Kawakawa. The project could deliver approximately 180 new homes over several stages while supporting the long-term wellbeing, housing needs and growth of both current and future residents.
Why is Te Mataora being proposed?
NHHT has identified a growing need for safe, affordable and appropriate housing across Te Tai Tokerau and within Ngāti Hine communities. Census data highlights significant levels of housing stress, overcrowding, rental affordability challenges and poor housing conditions for many whānau. Te Mataora aims to help address these challenges through a long-term, community-focused housing programme.
Who is leading Te Mataora?
Ngāti Hine Health Trust (NHHT) is leading the development and community engagement process for Te Mataora.
NHHT has extensive experience delivering housing, social services and community wellbeing programmes throughout Te Tai Tokerau. NHHT currently owns or leases housing and community facilities, manages tenancy services, and provides wrap-around support to whānau across the region.
Why is NHHT involved in housing?
Housing is a critical contributor to health, education, employment and overall wellbeing. NHHT's strategic focus includes improving housing outcomes for whānau as part of its broader commitment to whānau wellbeing, community development and long-term social outcomes.
Does NHHT have experience delivering housing projects?
Yes. NHHT has demonstrated housing delivery capability through projects such as the Marohapa development and currently owns or leases a substantial property portfolio that includes affordable rentals, emergency housing, rehabilitation facilities and community facilities. NHHT also provides tenancy management and wrap-around support services to help sustain successful housing outcomes.
Why Kawakawa?
Kawakawa is at the heart of the Ngāti Hine rohe and is a key location for education, health services, employment and community connections. The initiative aligns with NHHT's strategic goal of supporting housing and community wellbeing within the rohe.
Why now?
Housing need continues to grow, population numbers are increasing, and there is a recognised shortage of affordable housing options throughout Northland. Te Mataora seeks to respond to those needs through a staged, long-term approach.
How big is the development?
Approximately 180 homes are currently proposed across several stages.
Is 180 homes a large development for Kawakawa?
Yes. Based on Census information, 180 homes represent approximately one-third of Kawakawa's existing dwelling stock. NHHT recognises this is significant growth and believes it should be discussed as part of Kawakawa's future, not simply as a housing project.
Housing - and who the homes are for
Who are the homes intended for?
The housing mix is still being developed. Potential housing options could include:
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Affordable home ownership
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Affordable rentals
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Whānau housing
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Workforce housing
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Kaumātua housing
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Social housing
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Market housing
Will all the homes be social housing?
No. Te Mataora is intended to be a mixed community. The final housing mix is still being developed and will be communicated as decisions are made.
How many social houses will there be?
This has not yet been determined. When decisions are made, they will be publicly shared.
Will local whānau have priority?
One of the objectives of Te Mataora is to create housing opportunities for local whānau and Ngāti Hine families. The specific allocation process is still being developed.
Will there be opportunities for first-home buyers?
Affordable home ownership opportunities are being explored as part of the housing mix.
Will there be housing for kaumātua?
Kaumātua housing is being considered as part of the overall housing strategy.
Can whānau currently living outside Northland return home through this development?
One of the opportunities offered by Te Mataora is providing a pathway for whānau who wish to reconnect with their whenua, hapū and community.
What housing types are being considered?
Potential housing forms may include stand-alone homes, duplexes, smaller homes for kaumātua, family homes and other housing options suited to different household needs.
Location & design
Where will the development be located?
The development is proposed across land associated with the former hospital area and other identified sites, delivered in stages over time.
Why was this site chosen?
The site provides an opportunity for housing close to community facilities, health services, schools and transport connections.
What will the development look like?
Detailed designs are still being developed. Visual information, maps, site plans and staging plans will be shared as they become available.
Will there be green spaces and recreation areas?
The intent is to include quality public spaces and community-focused design features that support healthy neighbourhoods.
Will the development be staged?
Yes. Te Mataora is proposed as a multi-stage development delivered over several years rather than all at once
