Business South November 2025

34 | DEVELOPMENT Carter Group: Earlsbrook T T Karen Phelps New precinct luring buyers to Lincoln The 229 standalone residential sections represent the next chapter in the significant master-planned community. “By having it master planned, it means that all the areas within Earlsbrook will be connected to each other, unlike traditional smaller subdivisions that are done on a piecemeal basis.” The second stage of Canterbury development Earlsbrook has been launched, along with the introduction of Scholars Quarter to the Lincoln landscape. The 229 standalone residential sections represent the next chapter in the significant master-planned community. “We’ve made the commitment that we’ll be rolling out a similar-size stage every year, so everyone knows what to look forward to and the level of quality we’ll deliver,” says project manager for the development, Cliff Davis. Scholars Quarter builds upon the success of Earlsbrook Square, the development’s inaugural precinct that has already proven popular with Canterbury families and investors. The new stage maintains the community-focused vision, while introducing its own distinct character centred around education and connectivity. “This precinct is positioned to put residents at the centre of everything that matters,” explains Cliff. “With Lincoln University, a new primary school and local reserves all within walking distance, it’s a place that effortlessly connects you to learning, recreation and community life.” The timing of the release reflects both careful planning and market demand. Stage 1 sections were quickly snapped up, indicating strong appetite for quality development in the Lincoln area. “There haven’t been many houses or sections available in Lincoln, so demand has really built up,” says Cliff. “We also believe the strong interest reflects the quality of the development we’re creating.” Earlsbrook represents more than traditional subdivision development. The master-planned approach encompasses approximately 2000 lots across what will eventually become four distinct precincts, each with its own identity and character, as well as maintaining connection to the broader community. “By having it master planned, it means that all the areas within Earlsbrook will be connected to each other, unlike traditional smaller subdivisions that are done on a piecemeal basis,” says Cliff. “The development incorporates planned commercial areas, reserves, walking and cycle tracks and a primary school site, creating a vibrant community where residents can move easily through various transport options.” The precinct concept sets Earlsbrook apart from conventional developments. Cliff says that each neighbourhood has been carefully crafted to reflect Lincoln’s rich heritage and natural beauty, ensuring residents feel part of a unified community. Beyond Scholars Quarter and the established Earlsbrook Square, future stages will include The Springs, celebrating the area’s natural waterways, and Linden Park, inspired by the linden trees that have long characterised the Lincoln landscape. “These aren’t just new stages; they are unique identities carefully crafted to reflect Lincoln’s rich heritage and natural beauty,” explains Cliff. “They ensure that while each neighbourhood feels distinct, it remains a part of the vibrant, connected Earlsbrook community.” He says the Lincoln location itself adds significant appeal. Positioned just 25 minutes from Christchurch’s CBD, the town offers perfect balance between urban convenience and semi-rural lifestyle. Surrounded by vast plains and snow-capped mountains, residents enjoy abundant outdoor opportunities, with ski fields 90 minutes away and scenic Akaroa just over an hour’s drive. Lincoln is just a fantastic place to live,” says Cliff. ” The town’s agricultural heritage, anchored by Lincoln University as New Zealand’s oldest agricultural university, provides authentic character that the development has embraced through high-quality landscaping and design that complements the nearby rural area.” The development represents the final significant piece of land to be rezoned for residential use in this highly sought-after area. Behind it stands the Carter Group, a third-generation Canterbury-based company established in 1946. The company’s previous projects include Hyde Park in Avonhead and Regents Park in Casebrook, the first in Christchurch to incorporate streams and lakes. “We originally started as a house builder in Christchurch, and we’ve progressed into other areas within the property sector, but we have a strong passion for building communities, and that has existed throughout the three generations and continues to this day,” explains Cliff. Scholars Quarter specifically targets diverse buyers, from first-home purchasers finding their start in a thriving community, to growing families benefiting from proximity to the new school and local parks, and investors seeking property in a high-demand location. Cliff says the demand for Scholars Quarter sections has been very high. Potential purchasers can either buy sections direct or, for those seeking streamlined solutions, the development offers house-and-land packages in partnership with trusted local builders. The development will eventually house 32 display homes creating what is set to become New Zealand’s largest show home village.

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