94 | Community focused growth Paeroa’s newest mixed-use development, Paeroa Hills - earthworks have been completed for Stage One and Stage Two are now underway. Paeroa Hills T T Kelly Deeks DEVELOPMENT Significant progress is unfolding at Paeroa’s newest mixed-use development, Paeroa Hills, with earthworks completed for Stage One and Stage Two now underway as the project moves from groundwork to visible construction. Developer Wayne Wright says 2026 will mark a defining year for the site, with multiple components progressing simultaneously and the first vertical structure now taking shape. Construction has begun on a Memorial Chapel dedicated to Wayne’s late wife, Chloe. Positioned prominently among established trees on a rise overlooking the development, and visible from Thames Road, the chapel is designed as a landmark feature within the subdivision. The non-denominational building will stand 10 metres high, span 360sqm, and accommodate up to 250 guests. Rather than hosting regular religious services, it is intended primarily for weddings, funerals, and community events for Paeroa and surrounding towns. Completion is scheduled for Christmas this year. Wayne says once the structure is in place and the public can appreciate its scale and design, he expects booking enquiries to follow. An adjacent pavilion will provide flexibility for separate functions and catering, creating a purpose-built events destination within the development. Infrastructure is also advancing. Construction of the main entrance, a roundabout at the Norwood Road and Thames Road intersection, began in March and is programmed for six months. Preliminary works to realign essential services along Thames Road are already underway. Because the roundabout will be offset from the existing intersection and partially located within the subdivision boundary, traffic disruption on Thames Road is expected to be manageable and minimal. Completion of the roundabout will allow civil works for Stage One to proceed and eventually open the development to public access. Community housing is another early focus. The site for the Assisting Different Abilities People Trust (ADAPT) was prepared during Stage One earthworks, and the trust is now working with Paeroa Hills to enable an early construction start. The complex will include a communal building and four additional buildings delivering 16 self-contained units. It is strategically positioned near the future neighbourhood shopping centre and directly opposite a large local reserve. A four-level apartment building is also in design, with construction expected to begin before mid-year. The development will contain 18 units above basement carparking and is intended to become a local landmark while adding quality housing stock to Paeroa. Completion is targeted for the end of 2027. The first release of residential sections is planned for 2027, with housing construction and new residents anticipated from 2028. Further components are in the pipeline, including a local motel, a neighbourhood commercial centre, and a destination playground, all expected to roll out over the next two years. While the site evolves, its racecourse heritage remains central to the vision. Established stands of trees have been protected and will remain in perpetuity. A replica Tote building is currently in design for conversion into a café and bistro, while the future of the Members Grandstand remains under review, although conversion to apartments has been ruled out. Wayne says there will be opportunities throughout the development for landscaping and infrastructure elements to reflect the site’s history in both dedicated and subtle ways. Classified as a mixed-use development, Paeroa Hills is designed to deliver fully serviced, self-contained living alongside new amenities that will benefit the wider community. Wayne says the project builds on Paeroa’s strategic location and aims to inject renewed confidence into the town, reinforcing its commitment to community focused growth. www.mpad.co.nz • 07 220 9812 or 027 432 5154 Privileged to be working alongside Paeroa Hills Ltd Planning, Design and Resource Management Solutions DEVELOPMENT & INFRASTRUCTURE SPECIALISTS Surveying - Engineering - Innovation Sustainability - Delivery - Collaboration 09 426 6552 info@aspireconsulting.co.nz www.aspireconsulting.co.nz
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