Ocean Ridge has reached a major milestone. Kaikōura District Council has approved Plan Change 6, allowing the development to grow from 336 to 486 sections. It's the result of nearly three years of work, and it means Kaikōura now has room to grow for decades to come.
What the plan change means
Ocean Ridge was first designed around large lifestyle sections. Buyers today want more choice, so Plan Change 6 updates the layout to offer a wider mix of section sizes and more housing options for families, first-home buyers and older residents.
The plan change also lifts the height limit in the Ocean Ridge business hub from 8 metres to 15 metres. That opens the door to a future town centre and hotel with views out to the sea. We're now keen to talk with a major partner interested in building the town centre.
Tested by the July flood
Flood protection was one of the key issues looked at during the process. Our flood modelling allowed for a one-in-500-year Kowhai River flood, 30% more flow from climate change, a 1.5 metre sea level rise, and a two-metre build-up of the riverbed.
The July 7 storm put that work to a real test. More than 440mm of rain fell and the Kowhai River flooded, and Council confirmed the river broke out where our modelling predicted it would.
Strong community support
Of the 28 submissions received, 19 supported the plan change. The four submitters who were initially opposed later either withdrew or came round to support it. Thank you to everyone who took the time to have their say.
What happens next
Ocean Ridge remains capped at 168 sections until the Green Lane access route opens. Green Lane will link Ocean Ridge with Vicarage Views, local schools and the town centre. Together with Vicarage Views and Seaview, Ocean Ridge gives Kaikōura the housing it needs to welcome new families, young people and businesses.
Our thanks to the Resource Management Group team and to Council staff and the hearing commissioners for their work through the process.
Interested in a section at Ocean Ridge?
