Mana Ahuriri’s historic Pukemokimoki Development on Owen Street is progressing rapidly through its initial construction phases, with demolition work set to be completed by the end of this week and ground improvement work commencing immediately afterward.
The 24-unit housing development, named after the sacred island that once graced Ahuriri’s harbour waters, represents the first major project under Mana Ahuriri’s Accelerated Housing Programme and marks a significant step forward in delivering warm, safe, dry homes for whānau.
Following the successful blessing ceremony in August, development partner TW Construction has been working systematically through the preparatory phases of the development:
This Week: Demolition of existing structures on the Owen Street site will be completed by week’s end, with all demolition material to be cleared and the site prepared for the next critical phase of construction.
Next Phase: Ground improvement works will commence immediately following site clearance. This essential phase involves reinforcing and densifying the existing ground to create the stable foundation necessary for the development.
Mauri Stone Ceremony: Before ground improvement work begins, Mana Ahuriri will lay the mauri stone on site this Monday, September 22nd at 6am. The mauri stone will be sourced from Te Whanganui-a-Orotū (Ahuriri Estuary), reflecting the site’s strong connection to the original Pukemokimoki pā.
“A single stone acknowledges and anchors the mauri of the whenua and development, and symbolises kotahitanga with the surrounding environment. I believe this approach appropriately honours both the history and ongoing significance of the area” says Chad Tareha, Mana Ahuriri Trustee and Napier City Counsillor.
Ground improvement is a crucial next step that ensures the long-term stability and quality of the development, but the buried mauri stone ensures that the spiritual foundation connects us back to Te Whanganui-a-Orotū first. This demonstrates our commitment to building homes that will serve our whānau for generations to come, both physically and spiritually, while appropriately honouring both the history and ongoing significance of the area.
The completion of demolition and commencement of ground improvement work represents significant momentum for the broader Accelerated Housing Programme. With approximately 400 homes planned across multiple sites, including the upcoming Wharerangi (Te Roropipi) development and other strategic projects, Mana Ahuriri is establishing a strong foundation for addressing housing needs across the region.
Ngā mihi.