Multi-Storied Apartments

Many Pukekohe residents will now be aware of the plans for the site in Wesley Street where 3 former Housing NZ dwellings have been demolished. This is a redevelopment being undertaken by Kainga Ora – Homes and Communities. The plans are for one 5-storied apartment block adjacent to the road and 2 3-storied apartment blocks at the rear of the site. This will create 31 residential units on the site. There is a requirement under the Auckland Council plan for 31 carparks and 31 bicycle parks on the site, but only 21 carparks and 19 bicycle parks are proposed. Is this use really appropriate for a prime business site, and does it really reflect the type of town we want to live in? 

The 3 former HNZ homes have been demolished and the site is currently vacant.

This proposal appears to have been submitted to Council without any consultation with the community nor neighbours apart from advice that options for redevelopment were being considered. The Council approved the application without notification and without requiring any consultation. Fundamentally this was because the proposal was deemed to meet the rules for the zone, although clearly it didn’t.

It was also sad to see the wholesale dumping to landfill of many recyclable and valuable materials such as bricks, native timber, and clay tiles. I am sure the methodology was efficient and effective, as the site was cleared within a week, but what a waste!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are multi-storied apartments?

Multi-storied apartments are residential buildings with multiple levels, usually designed to accommodate several individual living units on a single site. They are often built in urban areas to maximize housing density.

Do communities have a say in apartment developments?

Yes, but the level of consultation depends on council rules and whether the development meets zoning regulations. Some developments that fully comply with the rules may not require formal consultation or notification to neighbours.

What happens to materials from demolished buildings?

Demolished materials can sometimes be recycled, reused, or sent to landfill. Proper planning and demolition methods can help recover valuable materials like timber, bricks, and tiles, reducing waste and environmental impact.

Are multi-storied apartments appropriate for all neighbourhoods?

Whether they are appropriate depends on zoning rules, community expectations, and infrastructure capacity. Councils evaluate proposals based on planning rules, but local residents may have opinions on how the development fits with the character of the area.