A Māori housing project in Ōwhata and Te Puke offers affordable homeownership via shared equity on ancestral land, with 37 homes funded by a government-backed initiative.

A Māori housing initiative in Ōwhata and Te Puke, led by Ōwhata Kōhanga Rākau and ANZ New Zealand, is providing affordable homeownership opportunities through a shared-ownership model on ancestral land. The project offers 27 leasehold homes in Ōwhata and 10 in Te Puke, with families purchasing 75% while a Māori trust holds 25%, allowing gradual ownership over 15 years. Interest-free loans and lower repayments than market rents make home ownership accessible to whānau who previously believed it was unattainable. Supported by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development’s fund, the development includes 38 affordable rentals and 28 social rental homes. The initiative addresses systemic barriers like banking bias and lack of cultural understanding, aiming to build long-term family wealth and stability. Construction begins in October.