Te Rauā housing development: A new chapter for Wairoa whānau

We’re delighted to share that four locals officially moved into their new homes at the Te Rauā residential development in May with a further seven over June. 

Each home includes open-plan kitchen and dining areas, air conditioning, heating, and wet-area showers, all built to meet healthy homes standards.

“This is more than just a housing project—it’s about restoring pride, reconnecting whānau with their whenua, and making sure our people are cared for in their own community,” said Kumeroa Tipoki-Smith, Housing Support Coordinator for Tātau Tātau o Te Wairoa.

When complete, Te Rauā will include 43 homes, ranging from one-bedroom kaumātua units to larger four-bedroom family houses. With Wairoa still feeling the impact of the Glengarry closure and high housing demand—over 300 homes are still needed—this development is already making a real difference.

“Many of the whānau applying are coming from overcrowded situations, temporary housing, or returning to Wairoa after being displaced by the floods,” shared Lewis Ratapu, Chief Executive Officer of Tātau Tātau o Te Wairoa Trust. “Te Rauā represents stability and a step toward long-term wellbeing.”

Construction is progressing well. Platinum Homes has finished 10 of their three- and four-bedroom homes. PCS Projects has completed nine two-bedroom homes, and Iconic Construction has wrapped up six one-bedroom and two two-bedroom homes—all fully landscaped and ready for move-in.

These 3 major contractors have sub-contracted out a lot of their work to local businesses such as electricians, painters, and landscapers, helping to provide opportunities to our skilled workforce. PCS also employs 5 local builders and 1 apprentice highlighting the projects support for local jobs.

Drone aerial shot of Te Rauā

The final stage of construction will see 16 more homes built. PGC Constructors is set to deliver eight four-bedroom homes, PCS is building four three-bedroom homes, and Platinum Homes will complete the remaining four three-bedroom homes.

At the heart of the nearly three-hectare site is a project still taking shape—the Tokotoko o te Rangi kaumātua precinct. This 12-room complex will offer shared living with private ensuites, a communal kitchen, and a live-in housekeeper. It’s all about supporting kaumātua in a way that honours tikanga Māori and the values of Wairoa.

Affordable rentals are a key part of the initiative. Eligible whānau can apply for the Te Rauā Affordable Rental Grant, allowing them to pay just 80% of market rent—an essential step for those struggling with the current housing crisis.

This project has been a real team effort, led by Tātau Tātau Housing Limited Partnership and backed by a solid group of partners. Te Taiwhenua o Heretaunga is looking after tenancy management, while Iconiq Construction, PCS Projects, and Platinum Homes have been handling the building.

QRS, SCL, and Toa Civil have taken care of the civil works. Ministry of Housing and Urban Development have been huge with their support of this project and their on-going collaboration with Tātau Tātau is very positive for the Wairoa Region.

For more information or to submit an Expression of Interest for kaumātua housing, please contact Tātau Tātau o Te Wairoa at eoiterauaa@ttotw.iwi.nz