Master plan for Ōmokoroa town centre
The developers who bought 17,000 sqm of commercial land between the supermarket and church in Ōmokoroa have told Lizard News the project is now fully resource consented.
Tze Wei Sneah and his father Kar Loon Sneah, directors of Halo Property Holdings Limited, say it’s prime time for the community to get involved.
They are in discussions with joint venture partners, including contractors who have been in the industry in the Tauranga area for a few years.
“These parties bring value to the project. This will be a demand-driven development around community needs. The feasibility study will determine whether this will be in several stages.
“What are people looking for in this centre as the population grows from 4,000 to 6,000 in the next three years? We would like community feedback on the offering,” says Tze.
Kar Loon wonders whether Ōmokoroa will need a larger medical centre, gymnasium or spa. “There is a limited commercial retail offering at present. The development must benefit tenants and the community as a whole. This can be the soul of Ōmokoroa. The village doesn’t have a hub to come together and meet,” says Kar Loon.
Rachel Millard of Tall Poppy says this development is exactly what Omokoroa needs.
“It’s exciting and it’s great for the community. There’s been a strong response already with a very high level of genuine interest from people wanting to be a part of it. I will be contacting all of them in the coming week as this is now progressing - and I’m more than happy to answer any further queries,” she says.
With the current scheme plan rendering, it is possible to see a conceptual snapshot of the intention. There is green space. It’s a family area; a public area with different amenities.
“Ōmokoroa needs a well-designed master plan with strong tenancy coordination. Businesses should complement one another. A food and beverage centre should not be doubling up on cafes or alcohol venues or restaurants. Not every prospective tenant may fit,” says Tze.
The consultants involved are well accoladed, such as Momentum Planning and Design - First Principles Architects who are known for commercial buildings at Mount Central - and Salt, who have created apartments and townhouses near Bayfair.
“Something exciting is coming, and we care about what is produced with this canvas. It is a legacy project. It must meet the characteristics of the village and be a sympathetically managed long-term sustainable development,” says Tze.
The Sneahs say they will be flexible as they build a mix of residential, commercial and retail space. For expressions of interest, please contact Rachel Millard as the marketing agent. Comments and feedback may be emailed to omokoroavillage@gmail.com