A large-scale parcel of undeveloped residential-zoned land in one of the Kāpiti Coast's most strategic and sought-after coastal areas has come to the market, giving developers opportunity to finally acquire the last piece in the immediate neighbourhood’s housing puzzle.

The 7,578sqm site at 60 Rimu Road, Raumati Beach is accessed via an independent driveway and is predominantly flat, with mature trees and scrub across much of the area. There are two existing structures on the site, and after an extended period of limited occupation, these are fit for removal.

The subject property is located in easy walking distance to Raumati Beach Village with its boutique shops, cafes, restaurants and day-to-day conveniences, and is less than 700 metres from the Coastlands Shopping Centre. It is handy to roading arterials and public transport connections including a bus hub and Paraparaumu Railway Station for a streamlined commute to Wellington city by road or rail, and community facilities like schools, and recreational amenities.

As per the District Plan map, the property’s residential zoning allows for intensification which lifts the site’s development potential and makes it a standout opportunity for developers and land bankers, according to agents. This designation allows for a greater number of dwellings, increasing yield and return while meeting the strong demand for well-located housing. Its prominent position adds profile and value, creating a site well suited for multi-unit or mixed-use projects that align with Kapiti Coast’s intensification plans.

The property is for sale by negotiation through Johnny Curtis and Simon Butler of Bayleys Wellington Commercial, and Ellie Tzimas and Hannah Mackley, Bayleys Kāpiti.

Curtis says enquiry from development entities is escalating for Kāpiti Coast land, with confidence driven by the improving interest rate environment, expected lower cost of construction materials, and infrastructural efficiencies which make the area appealing for commuters.

“The fact that this bareland property is already zoned residential within a sought-after area works in its favour and with other Kāpiti Coast residential development projects gaining strong traction, it’s a proven region for growth and should provide impetus to developers.

“Whether a new owner opts to develop ahead of the predicted upswing in the housing market once economic fundamentals settle, or landbanks for a future project, the site is generating interest and we’re hoping for a good outcome for our vendors who are now ready to divest the property.”

Tzimas says the current family owners purchased the property circa-1968, and she understands the land was originally owned by a retired sea captain.

“The land has been carved off a larger landholding that once stretched from Rimu Road to the old State Highway 1 and across to Raumati Road so it has significance in the area. Over the years there were a couple of dwellings on the site but they’re no longer there, leaving just a couple of fairly dilapidated structures that can be cleared.

“The owners had considered developing the property themselves, however, have decided that is best left to those working at the coal face of the residential development market to take it forward.

“Since launching the property to the market, we’ve have had a good level of interest from both large and medium-scale developers who recognise how rare it is to find a site of this size in essentially the heart of Paraparaumu offering scale, coastal charm and urban convenience.

“On the residential sales’ side, we’re noting high interest for quality housing and there’s real potential to deliver a premium residential product to the market in this tightly held family-friendly suburb, and within a proven growth location.”