Council sells Smiths Farm to tackle housing shortage

In a major step in addressing Tauranga’s housing shortage, Tauranga City Council has reached an agreement with Venture Developments Limited to build at least 307 new homes on a site known as Smith Farm.

Tauranga Mayor Mae Drysdale says the project aims to provide a range of housing solutions, including affordable homes, in the heart of the city.

“Situated between Bethlehem and Taurico, Smiths Farm has long been recognized as a strategic housing development opportunity. The project will help increase housing supply in Tauranga to meet the urgent need for more affordable, medium-density homes,” says Mahe.

“This project is expected to help alleviate the housing crisis in the city by offering a variety of housing options to suit different needs and price points. This strategic partnership reflects a shared commitment to increasing housing supply with an agreed minimum density of 307 new homes planned for the site.”

Following a thorough assessment, the Council selected Venture Developments as the preferred developer for Smiths Farm. The agreement includes the sale of land for US$34 million, based on the expected development area.

Venture Developments CEO Jarod Thorpe says the agreement is now unconditional and the next phase of planning and development can begin.

“Initial work is expected to begin shortly and houses of various sizes and typologies will be delivered. Section sizes range from 3,000 sqm at the outer edges, with medium density housing built in the center of the block. All sections and houses offer views of important landmarks such as Mauao.”

The first homes are expected to be ready for occupancy near Bethlehem town center and the Tauranga CBD by mid-2028, with the entire project expected to be completed by 2031. The timing is dependent on NZTA completing the link road from the new Takitimu Northern Line. expressway,” says Jarod.

“Venture Developments will work with the Bay of Plenty Housing Equity Fund (HEF) to deliver 21 units of affordable housing as part of the project.”

Mahe says providing affordable housing was a key outcome for the council.

“The council has committed to investing $20 million in the HEF, which is designed to support long-term housing affordability across the region. Of this total funding, $5 million was made conditional on the provision of affordable housing at Smiths Farm.

In addition to providing affordable housing, this project will stimulate economic growth by creating construction jobs and associated opportunities throughout the development cycle, and will improve the overall health of the housing market in Tauranga.”

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