Ngāti Mutunga’s vision for a vibrant, supportive, and culturally grounded future is taking visible shape in Urenui, with the recent laying of concrete slabs and the ceremonial placement of mauri stones at two papakāinga housing sites marking a significant milestone in the iwi’s long-term development strategy. These developments at Ngapapa Street and Whakapaki Street are not just about bricks and mortar—they represent the reclamation of whenua, the strengthening of whānau ties, and the expression of tino rangatiratanga through community-led solutions to housing challenges.
The papakāinga development is being built by Taranaki-based building specialists, Location Homes, who bring with them a deep understanding of community-led housing design. Known for their mahi across the region and their partnership approach to iwi projects, Location Homes are not just contractors—they’re collaborators in building intergenerational wellbeing. Their kaupapa aligns closely with Ngāti Mutunga’s commitment to whanaungatanga (connection), kaitiakitanga (guardianship), and manaakitanga (care), and they have worked closely with the Rūnanga to ensure the designs are both functional and reflective of the community’s aspirations.
The Ngapapa Street site features a combination of three new homes—two spacious duplex units at the rear, each with three bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms, and a garage, and a two-bedroom standalone house at the front offering privacy and compact functionality. Meanwhile, Whakapaki Street will see the development of two more three-bedroom townhouses, designed to blend harmoniously into the local landscape with carefully chosen colour palettes and features that reflect the natural beauty of Urenui.
At the heart of this project is a response to the critical housing shortage that affects many rural Māori communities. But this is more than a housing solution—it is a cultural and economic investment in the future of Ngāti Mutunga. By creating modern, affordable rental homes managed by the Rūnanga, this initiative offers returning whānau a pathway to reconnect with their roots, contribute to their community, and raise future generations on their own whenua.
Ngāti Mutunga’s housing strategy is deeply community-focused, prioritising affordability, sustainability, and cultural fit. These new homes are purposefully designed to support tamariki, kaumātua, and whānau of all ages to thrive. With easy access to schools, transport, and local amenities, these builds reflect best-practice papakāinga principles—supporting social cohesion, environmental responsibility, and long-term economic stability.
Construction officially began in April 2025 and is expected to be completed by December 2025, with ongoing updates to be provided by the Rūnanga as the build progresses. The homes will be available as rentals, enabling a wide range of whānau to benefit while also ensuring that the Rūnanga retains stewardship over the properties and their long-term care.
Wastewater infrastructure is also being managed responsibly, with septic tanks and new fields installed in accordance with regulatory requirements. A connection to the future reticulated system will be made when that becomes available, ensuring the homes remain sustainable and environmentally sound.
This papakāinga development is a testament to Ngāti Mutunga’s ongoing commitment to its people. Whether returning home, securing a future for tamariki, or investing in iwi aspirations, the papakāinga development in Urenui invites whānau to be part of something enduring—a community strengthened through shared values, smart design, and collective purpose
As the concrete foundations settle and walls begin to rise, what becomes clear is this: these aren’t just houses being built—they’re homes filled with potential, memory, and mana. A place to return to. A place to stand. A place to belong.
