CHANGING THE FACE OF OTAHUHU.

7TH AUGUST, 2018

Sources: Otahuhu Recreation and Youth Centre and the Auckland Council

Drive through Otahuhu today and it will look completely different compared to twenty years ago...

Otahuhu began as a military settlement, until the 1900s where the cheap, flat land and easy access to roads made it a perfect heavy industry location. After the closure of the freezing works and the railway workshops in the 80’s, the area was largely built of large warehouses and the New Zealand Forest Products paper mill.

Fast forward to recent days and the face of Otahuhu has changed drastically. From the vibrant strip of shops along Great South Road to the brand new Train Station down the road, the council is investing large sums of money in to transforming the area.

More recently, the Toia Recreation Centre on Mason Avenue has a complete face lift, and is equipped with six different swimming pools, swim schools, a gym, group fitness including Les Mils and Zumba classes, school holiday programmes and a full sized multi-sport court.

toia-play-area.jpg

The Auckland Council also has a large scale framework in place to rebuild the streets of Otahuhu and make them more pedestrian and bicycle friendly, with new bus routes also in the plan. The Council has the following strategic objectives in mind:

  • Strengthening the Place
  • Delivering High Quality Public realm
  • Enhancing Accessibility & Connectivity
  • Celebrating Culture
  • Recognising the Importance of Heritage
  • Progressing Sustainability

 

Many first home buyers and investors are recognising the huge potential for growth in Otahuhu, and are choosing to purchase homes in the area. Mason Square, for example, is a brand new three level apartment block popping up right next to the Toia Recreation Centre. Many of the purchasers are first home buyers, with many of them excited to move in to Stage 1 this September. To find out more click here.