The Waimakariri District Council is seeking concept proposals from developers for Kaiapoi’s redzone land.

The 2.9 hectares sits adjacent to the Kaiapoi River at the heart of the Town Centre.  

It was transferred from Crown ownership to the Council in June 2018, and set aside for future town centre expansion and mixed-use development.

The Council has already been approached by several interested parties with various proposals for Kaiapoi’s three Mixed-Use Business Areas.

Mayor Dan Gordon says they’re pleased by the high level of interest shown.

“We’ve partnered with the private sector on developments within the Town Centre that had great outcomes for both business and the community. I think that proactive approach and the Council’s ongoing commitment to Kaiapoi makes the area very attractive to further investment.”

He says the Council will be looking for developers with a proven track record and appropriate level of experience, to acquire land for attractive mixed use development – which could include residential, business, car-parking, and public amenities.

“This is a unique opportunity for riverside development in central Kaiapoi, adjoining existing business and community activities, and to be part of the future growth of Kaiapoi.”

Successful proposals will need to align with the Kaiapoi Town Centre Plan, which casts a vision of Kaiapoi as ‘New Zealand’s Best Rivertown’ and promotes the potential of the town to become a vibrant and attractive destination.

According to the Plan, development of the Mixed-Use Business Areas should support existing businesses, include attractive public spaces, embrace the Kaiapoi River and incorporate a pleasant pedestrian environment that encourages people to further explore the town.

Once the concept proposals are evaluated, the Council will work closely with candidates to reach an agreement for the purchase and subsequent development of the land.

The Council has invested heavily in Kaiapoi following the Canterbury earthquakes with completion of the $9.5M Kaiapoi Marine Precinct, rebuild of Williams Street, construction of the Ruataniwha Civic Centre and the addition of new sports fields, BMX track and dog park.

A proposal for building an Olympic level aqua sports park in Kaiapoi has also been announced by the WHoW Charitable Trust who are currently completing a feasibility study.