The Government is partnering with iwi organisation, Ngāti Whakaue Tribal Lands Inc, to deliver 80 affordable rentals at Manawa Gardens in Rotorua by mid-2027.
Associate Housing Minister Tama Potaka today confirmed the Government will invest $28.47 million while Ngāti Whakaue is contributing over $16 million for a total of $45 million.
“We’re focussed on delivering the right houses, in the right places with the right support, for those in genuine need. These homes will be available to kaumātua, working whānau priced out of the private rental market, and others in need seeking long-term housing security,” Mr Potaka says.
“Whānau deserve certainty that they will be able to stay in their community, raise tamariki and mokopuna (children), and build for the future. These houses will be used as affordable rentals for 25 years, with rents capped at no more than 80 per cent of market rates.”
The 80 new Manawa Gardens homes add to the completion of 80 affordable rentals by Ngāti Whakaue Tribal Lands Inc, which were finished in 2024. Civil works for the new homes are due to begin in early-2026 with the project completed by the middle of 2027.
Mr Potaka said the investment was an important step forward for whānau Māori in Rotorua, where housing pressures meant many had to live in motels or other places unfit for purpose.
“By partnering with Māori organisations and community groups, we are changing that picture. With only two Contracted Emergency Housing motels remaining in use, we will meet our election commitment to exit these remaining motels by mid-December.”
Manawa Gardens is part of the Government’s broader commitment to enabling delivery of 400 affordable rental homes alongside, with and for Māori across the motu (country) by 2027.
