Tauranga City Council has confirmed its approach to funding papakāinga housing, paving the way for more whānau to build homes on ancestral Māori land.
The decision adopts a targeted distribution model for the Council’s Papakāinga Fund, focusing on removing key barriers that have prevented developments from progressing.
Te Awanui Ward Councillor Hēmi Rolleston says the decision represents a significant step forward in enabling housing outcomes for tangata whenua.
“This is about removing real barriers that Māori landowners face and supporting projects to move from concept to reality,” Hēmi says.
“We know there are developments ready to go but stuck because they can’t fund detailed design, technical work or consenting. This fund is designed to bridge that gap. Only 16 houses have been built In the last 5 years.”
The Papakāinga Fund will prioritise multi-dwelling developments that are ready to progress, supporting costs such as planning, engineering, and resource consent work.
Council estimates the approach could help unlock more than 60 homes across several developments currently stalled at early stages.
“By targeting support earlier in the process, we can make a meaningful difference and help unlock housing supply on Māori land,” Hēmi says.
“It’s also about supporting whānau to reconnect with their whenua and strengthening our communities.”
The total fund is $400,000 with Expressions of Interest now open, allowing eligible projects to apply for funding until 19 June. Decisions on the first round of funding are expected by August.
Depending on the amount requested in funding applications more money could be available through the review of the development contributions for Papakāinga Grant.
Te Papa Ward Councillor Rod Taylor says the Papakāinga Fund is part of Council’s broader commitment to enabling housing and working in partnership with mana whenua to deliver better outcomes for the city.
“This approach reflects partnership, trust and practical action. It’s a positive step toward a more inclusive Tauranga,” Rod says.
A Papakāinga task force will be put in place to look at all opportunities and how to overcome barriers currently in place for building housing on Māori land.