Nestled between Waikanae Beach and the Township of Waikanae is Ngārara, a new housing Community which sets the benchmark in quality urban design. Ngārara is an example of ‘sustainable urban development’ taking a holistic approach to the design of community. The vision for the project was to create somewhere not just to live, but to belong, with a strong sense of place and connection to the landscape.

In close proximity to the newly constructed motorway, and with Transmission Gully set for completion in the near future the development was ideally positioned for Wellingtonians, looking for a slice of the ‘beach lifestyle’ whilst remaining ‘closely’ connected to the city.

The 14 townhouses are designed to provide a wide range of typologies from smaller 2-bedroom homes through to larger three bedroom family homes. The homes are attractive to a wide range of different demographics, which created the diversity the development required to create community.

The homes themselves were thoughtfully considered with flexible, function footprints. Social outdoor spaces were provided on public accessways to create a sense of community interaction and sunny outdoor courtyards were private with native planting in replace of boundary fences.

The development was the first of its kind in New Zealand with all homes designed as low energy dwellings, Homestar rated with a small solar PV array and rain water collection and storage as standard.

Super insulated, the homes consume only small amounts of energy and with the roof top solar arrays have a minimal impact on the environment over their lifetime. Constructed from low maintenance, locally sourced materials the development is designed to stand the test of time and create community now and well into the future.

At an urban level, compact lots provide the density and yield required whilst maintaining a strong connection with the landscape. Private laneways put pedestrians and bikes first with natural edges and native planting throughout. To protect the local ecosystems, and minimise run-off into the surrounding wetlands, all stormwater is managed on site through swales and permeable paving. Parks and pathways throughout provide ample amenity for the community.

Built: 2018 | Engineer: Wilton Joubert | Builder: Maypole Homes

Photographs copyright of: Jason Mann