Develop in Whangārei

Throughout the last decade, Whangārei’s economic prosperity has improved considerably. Whangārei has an optimistic medium and long-term economic outlook. In the short term, the economic impacts of COVID-19 will present some significant challenges.

Current large scale development projects include:

Hundertwasser Art Centre with Wairau Māori Art Gallery

Opened in 2022, the art centre is estimated to bring in an economic benefit of $26 million to the region and more than 250,000 visitors to Whangārei annually, in line with the number of visitors the Hundertwasser toilets attract in Kawakawa. With this increased activity happening in the region comes an exceptional opportunity for job growth, and for economic, social and cultural revitalisation.

Marsden Cove

A Hopper waterways development upon completion will have over 700 homes.  The community includes canal front and residential property, a retirement lifestyle village and commercial centre located at the entrance to Whangārei Harbour.  The project is halfway through completion and is a desirable and busy area.

Port Nikau 

The Port Nikau Development is a waterside development which is 100 hectares of residential, commercial and marine opportunities, which will come to life in the next 5-10 years.

Whangarei District Council - upcoming projects 

As part of the Long Term Plan, Council outlines the main objectives and key developments for the District. 

Long Term Plan

There are also projects underway such as the Port Road Bridge widening, Pohe Island playground, Raumanga shared path extension and more. There are also plans to relocate the Airport which is currently located in Onerahi. 

Northland transport spending - New Zealand Transport Agency

Over the next 5 years, NZTA have committed to spending around $700 million in a package that will provide a new rail link to Northport, upgrades to the rail line north of Whangārei and targeted major safety upgrades to State Highway 1 to help everyone get where they’re going safely.

Northport - Vision for Growth 

Northport is New Zealand’s northernmost deep-water commercial port. Northport is the closest port to most international markets and located less than two hours from Auckland, New Zealand’s main commercial hub. To meet future freight needs and support both Northland and Auckland's growth, Northport is working on expanding.

Northport - History of the Port