The go-ahead has been given for a billion-dollar manufacturing and housing community on a rural site near Ōhinewai in North Waikato.
An artist impression of the $1 billion development planned for Ōhinewai. Photo: An artists’ impression of the $1 Billion development planned for Ohinewai
Independent commissioners for the Waikato District Council have approved mattress and bedding company Sleepyhead's rezoning plan for the land to allow its project to go ahead.
Over the next 10 years, Sleepyhead plans to have a factory on the site, creating up to 2600 jobs. Once fully developed, the 178ha site will include industrial, commercial and residential zones with 1100 homes for 3000 residents.
The decision is open to appeal.
If the zoning decision is confirmed after the appeal period, which is 30 working days, the developer will still have to apply for land use and subdivision consents to carry out the planned development.
Waikato District Mayor Allan Sanson said he was delighted by the approval.
"This will mean a major boost for the communities of Ōhinewai and Huntly, as well as for the whole Waikato district. It will bring jobs, revitalise the northern Waikato with affordable new housing, and encourage other commercial investment in the area.
"It's a tremendous stimulus for the council's vision to create liveable, thriving and connected communities as New Zealand continues to navigate Covid-19 and uncertain economic times ahead."
Waikato District Council community growth general manager Clive Morgan said development at Ōhinewai would help achieve the council's 'Waikato 2070' growth and economic development strategy, and would deliver a substantial increase in housing and jobs in the district.
Kiingitanga office chief of staff Archdeacon Ngira Simmonds said: "We welcome responsible development that is considerate to mana whenua needs, environmental considerations and that will bring sustained employment for the people of the Waikato."