Development of 16 villas in Ahuriri begins

Hastings Demolition foreman Dan Johansen with New Zealand Sotheby's International Realty sales associate James Haggerty at the Ahuriri Villas site.

Development of the Ahuriri Villas is under way.

The site sits on 4139sq m of land on the old Napier Provedoring Co site which is one block back from the waterfront and was sold last year by Colliers International to the developers.

The project was launched to the market by the Ahuriri Land Development Company Ltd in December.

The first steps include the demolition of a 2000sq m warehouse that was previously used for warehousing, shedding and storage purposes to clear room for the build of the first six villas, ranging in size from 135sq m to 142sq m. Once Stage One is sold off the plans, Stage Two will be released.

Ahuriri Development Company Ltd is developing the site.

The company is a joint venture between property developer Jonathan Wallace and local real estate business owner Simon Tremain.

This is an exciting first venture into residential development for Mr Wallace, who is the managing director of Wallace Development Company, a company with a reputation for high-quality commercial development around New Zealand.

Marketed by New Zealand Sotheby's International Realty's Jacqui Taylor and James Haggerty, Stage One of the development, consisting of six architecturally designed villas, has three villas under contract and another three still available on the market with two of the three under negotiation.

Ms Taylor said the site's location in Ahuriri was a real attraction for potential buyers as was the "lock up and leave" aspect of the villas which were perfect for those looking for a relaxed, urban style of living without the responsibilities of looking after a large property.

"The villas are well positioned to Napier's central city and in close proximity to the Napier Port and Hawke's Bay Airport."

The floorplans provide easy living, two bedrooms and two living with one that doubles as accommodation overflow, as well as courtyards front and back.

"These are different from the traditional townhouse, unlike anything we have seen in Napier and are drawing significant interest," she says.

Mayor Bill Dalton said council recognises that Ahuriri provides a unique environment which mixes quality residential developments with offices, a seaside village and a marina on the legacy of an industrial port area.

"We are continually looking at ways to build on Ahuriri's quality and this development will be a welcome addition."