Will you be part of the bold new landscape of Auckland, or left in the shadow of progress?
You’ve no doubt heard of the Unitary Plan, but what does it mean for you? Opportunity, according to Auckland building consent guru Hamish Firth, director of Mt Hobson Group. Giving real life examples from Pt Chevalier, St Johns, Orakei, Remuera, Greenlane and Newmarket, he explains how savvy investors can slice and dice pieces of land to maximise their development potential in ways never before possible.
18 months since its inception, the Unitary Plan is in motion: New homes built, many more under construction
“A lot of suburban Auckland has been zoned mixed housing suburban, it’s not governed by any density controls” notes Hamish. “That is the predominant zone in Auckland…in every suburb you’ll see that zone. It allows for two level townhouses, it allows them to be joined together.” Click on the link to check out the zones for your property and start considering your own transformation.
Simplified approval process
While previously the need for neighbour consent could put the brakes on redevelopments, under the new rules this is no longer required. “Having four houses to a site could become the new norm.” As development continues, people’s expectations and attitudes will likely adapt to the changes.
Terrace house and apartment zones: for high intensity developments in suburbia
Terrace house and apartment zones are situated close to shops, town centres and public transport. They enable the construction of dwellings of up to five levels, or 16 metres. Perhaps one of the most controversial aspects of the Unitary Plan, the benefits are clear. High density housing in areas close to centralised amenities is key in addressing the current accommodation crisis. An apartment is often a practical and affordable option for first home buyers, while holding purchase appeal to other demographics, such as retirees and investors.
27 metre developments: Sky high in the city
To illustrate the large-scale possibilities of the plan, Hamish used an example of a site on Remuera Rd, Newmarket. A 27-metre high apartment complex will provide 87 – 90 apartments in the heart of Newmarket, within easy reach of all the central city has to offer. “Your whole life is right at your doorstep.”
Less requirement for carparks
While previously two carparks were required for each new dwelling, under the new rules there is no longer a need for even one at some sites, particularly in areas where public transport is readily accessible. This can translate to significant savings in cost and space.
Getting started
For a small fee, Hamish Firth’s company Mt Hobson Group can provide a formal site review that covers Unitary Plan requirements, including zones, drainage and flooding issues along with an estimate of how many units could be constructed on the site. Hamish stresses the vital importance of working with a reliable team of professionals, including a mortgage broker, real estate agent, architect and engineer to ensure any development is “bankable, saleable and consentable.” He also notes the potential for smaller scale developments such as a single room unit situated at the rear of an existing dwelling, which may also be more readily achievable under the plan.
Quickly work out potential borrowing
Hamish Patel
021 625 693, 09 625 4693 hamish@monline.co.nz
Simplify the planning process
Hamish Firth
021 661 973, 09 950 5110, hamish@mhg.co.nz
Quick Resources
Council’s Geo Maps viewer click here
Quick guide on the zones click here
Please get in touch with me
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