Residential/Lifestyle

Surveying The Bay has performed many rural residential subdivisions over the years, including significant developments in Taradale (The Terraces), Havelock North (Hill Country Estate), and Waipukurau (Hatuma Heights).

We have also completed countless lifestyle subdivisions for isolated dwelling sites in rural zones. These subdivisions are less complex than in rural residential zones closer to town, but each site has its own unique factors to consider.

Most urbanised areas have an interface between higher density urban zones and productive rural areas, usually referred to as the rural residential zone. Examples in Napier are Poraiti, the elevated parts of Taradale, and Bay View. In Hastings District there are, amongst others, rural residential zones in Avery/Seafield Roads, Omaranui/Strome Roads and large areas of the Havelock hills.

These zones are most often located on less fertile land on hill slopes inappropriate for traditional development. Lot sizes typically range from 2500 m² to 1.5 hectares.

Rural residential living is popular as it provides for those who desire semi-rural living, while living close to town for employment, shopping and recreation.

The planning of rural residential areas requires careful consideration because, although it takes pressure off urban expansion onto highly productive fertile soils, it often occurs on elevated sites that have particular landscape values and physical constraints. Cultural values associated with the land, and the potential for archaeological remains to be found, also need to be considered.

Also, often being on hill slopes, the lot layout and road alignment requires careful subdivision and engineering design to create practical building platforms, minimise earthworks, and deal appropriately with stormwater. These considerations apply equally to rural lifestyle subdivisions of single sites.

Surveying The Bay has significant experience in subdivision for rural residential and lifestyle living, and we understand all the issues that need to be addressed to create a successful development. Please Contact Us for a FREE FIRST CONSULTATION and specific advice on your project