| 33 T T Rosa Watson Buyers drawn to attractive subdivision Townsend Fields, situated in West Rangiora, boasts open countryside surrounded by reserves, waterways, native planting and recreational walkways and paths, and has become the town’s newest, eco-friendly location to call home. Project Control Management - Townsend Fields REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT A housing development outside Christchurch has become a family legacy that will contribute to the local community for years to come. Townsend Fields, situated in West Rangiora, boasts open countryside surrounded by reserves, waterways, native planting and recreational walkways and paths, and has become the town’s newest, eco-friendly location to call home. The land was once a forest with waterways, before being farmed for many years. The owners, Jim and Susan Wakefield, wanted minimal disturbance to the natural amenity of the land, and were passionate about ensuring the area retains its natural beauty, while also creating a subdivision where homeowners can build to their specific needs. Stage 3 of the development has sold entirely, with 90% already built on, general manager Justin Busbridge says. Stage 4, with 51 lots, was titled in September 2024, and by April 2025 there were 49 lots either sold or under contract, with 21 houses under construction. Three were completed and occupied. Stage 5 is currently under construction and due for completion in May, with titles issued later in 2025. “It is only nine large lots due to the impending implementation of the new District Plan, which will enforce a higher density of lots per hectare, resulting in smaller (section sizes) for future stages district wide,” Justin explains. “This is a direct result of the Medium Density Housing Rules the (previous) Labour Government introduced,” Justin says. He says there is already strong interest in the stage 5 lots, now that pre-sales are underway. Despite a slowing of sales last year heading into winter, combined with rising interest rates, things have turned around this year. There has been strong interest in stage 4, which sold out in April. Justin says people are attracted to the development’s competitively priced sections, along with the natural surroundings, and the Te Matauru Primary School, which is located at the northern end of the subdivision. “The reserves within the development and the Storm Water Management Area (SMA) continues to be a talking point by the occupants of Townsend Fields and the local community.” Previous stages are now showing signs of establishment, with verdant landscapes and colour, Justin says. The wider than minimum-width roads and footpaths provide ease of accessibility for both vehicles and pedestrians. “The range and quality of the builds is giving confidence to purchasers to create their own designs, not being hindered by the surrounding properties.” The development makes a large contribution to the local community, and to date Townsend Fields Ltd has paid just over $7 million in development contributions to the Waimakariri District Council. “This money is used to provide infrastructure and recreational reserves for the benefit of the community. In addition, to date there will be 175 more rate-paying families, which also increases the budget take for the WDC,” says Justin. The development is a legacy created by the Wakefield family. “Jim and Susan Wakefield always set high standards for themselves. “The standards for the subdivision were set by them early in the project and have been carried on by their son Steve Wakefield, the managing director of Townsend Fields Limited,” Justin explains. “The team at Eliot Sinclair consultants, Truline Civil contractors, and the Wakefield family believe the finished product would make Jim and Susan proud.” A vibrant and diverse community is emerging at the development, including families, working couples, and retirees. “I know of at least one group of neighbours who have held street parties together,” says Justin. He is confident the subdivision is shaping up as the family had imagined all those years ago. Skill & Experience 0800 TRULINE | www.trulinecivil.com • Sub-division Works • Earthworks & Roading • Pipeline Systems • Water Reticulation Systems • Concrete Structure Works TRU-LINE CIVIL bring these key aspects when partnering on construction projects: We’ll work with you on your project. We’ll bring our skills, knowledge, and reliability to the table. We’ll execute the works with excellence.
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