New development causing a stir
Activity on the corner of High Street Waipawa and Abbotsford Road has caused curiosity in locals and passers-by, as ponies and grazing livestock have recently given way to a large sign and the beginnings of building activity.
The activity is the start of a new development by Fresh on Mains — a combination of residential and boutique retail properties, with parking and outdoor seating areas to encourage people to stop and browse.
The development comprises eight multi-level homes with the opportunity for home-based businesses on the downstairs level.
It’s a concept that has worked well overseas and while it seems novel, it’s actually an old concept made fresh and modern, says Kaye Harrison of Ray White Hastings and CHB, who is marketing the new development.
“Shops traditionally used to have accommodation upstairs and it’s still obvious in some of our older buildings. This is aimed at boutique, home-based businesses — people who don’t want a large retail space.
“There has already been interest and there are some exciting new businesses on their way to CHB as a result.”
The building platform has been kept to the flat portion of the property, with the build back from the road to allow parking and beautification and the rear sloped area to be kept as a miniforest and open spaces for the enjoyment of the property owners.
The actual dwellings and retail lots are compact and designed to be low maintenance — people won’t need to spend time on gardening.
Kaye says the main interest in the properties is coming from outside the local area.
“We have a huge number of newcomers to CHB and they need more homes and want to start businesses. In the last two years I have sold only one home to a local buyer. CHB has been a well-kept secret but now the secret is out and properties in Otane ¯ and Waipawa are incredibly popular.”
While the thermal concrete construction for Fresh on Main is being done by a specialist Wellington firm, the rest of the project will be carried out by local contractors, Kaye says.
“The development will look attractive — walkways, established trees, outdoor seating and a relaxed shopping experience. People will want to stop — that’s the intention. It will support the community as it grows and build on its character.”