Construction of a new senior housing complex on a council-owned site in the Flaxmere Town Centre is set to get underway early next year, with Alexander Construction awarded the contract to build the 39-unit development.
It’s a partnership between Te Tūāpapa Kura Kāinga – Ministry of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and Hastings District Council, being co-funded through the contestable Affordable Housing Fund.
Today, Council, contractor and mana whenua representatives broke the ground at the site behind the Flaxmere Village shops, and also announced the name for the new development – Te Pā Harakeke.
Hastings Mayor, Sandra Hazlehurst said it was a very exciting step towards achieving one of the goals of the Hastings medium and long-term housing strategy – to provide affordable rental homes for seniors struggling in the private rental market.
“This is the first senior housing we have built in about 40 years – it will be fantastic to have this housing option right in the heart of the village,” she said.
“Our seniors are an important part of our community, and this will provide an accessible, safe, secure modern option for residents to call home.
“And what’s even better is we have confirmed we are on our way to having a full-sized
supermarket built, which will help support our growing Flaxmere community.”
The name for the development symbolises the harakeke (flax plant) and was endorsed by the Heretaunga Takoto Noa Māori Standing Committee, Flaxmere Planning Committee, and
approved by Hastings District Council.
The plant’s growth pattern, where the outer blades (hākui and hākoro) protect and nurture the younger shoots at the centre, aligns with the housing complex’s purpose – offering security, support, and community for older residents.
The name also honours Flaxmere’s historical ties to harakeke, once central to its textile and
aquaculture industries. Distinct from Pāharakeke, which refers to the wider area of Flaxmere, Te Pā Harakeke carries no specific ancestral associations, making it inclusive and reflective of whānau values.
The complex’s design incorporates Te Aranga design principles, connecting it to local culture and history. Gabled rooflines echo traditional whare (houses), while a harakeke-inspired colour palette and landscaping enhance its cultural authenticity and warmth.
Mayor Hazlehurst said the name was very appropriate.
“Te Pā Harakeke beautifully encapsulates whānau values and Flaxmere’s heritage. It reflects our commitment to creating a nurturing, culturally connected environment for our senior residents.”
Flaxmere Planning Committee chairman, Trace Tuimaseve said the name would sit well in the community.
“It represents inclusivity, connection, and the enduring importance of whānau – especially the care and respect due to our elders.”
Flaxmere ward councillor Henry Heke said it was very important that Council and the community supported seniors who needed safe warm homes.
“Te Pā Harakeke is a testament to our community’s dedication to honouring our heritage while providing for the needs of our kaumātua. It’s a meaningful step towards ensuring our seniors have a safe, supportive place to call home.
Construction of the units is anticipated to start in the first quarter of 2025, and Alexander Construction managing director Mark Hamilton said his team was excited and grateful to be given the opportunity to build these homes.
“We put our best foot forward for this project and are confident that the whare we will deliver will hit the mark for the people who will be living in them,” he said.
