Dear Editor,

Housing Development Plans Confirmed for Karori’s St John’s Church Site

St John’s Church in Karori was demolished in 2017 due to seismic concerns. A previous developer had been wanting to build 40 one- and two-bedroom units on the site, but plans fell through because of rising costs. A new developer has now been chosen to build 20 apartments and townhouses.

The site of an old church in the Wellington suburb of Karori, now a regular community market and food truck hub, will transform into a housing development. St John’s Church on the corner of Karori Rd and Campbell St was demolished in 2017 because of seismic concerns.

Seven years later, Wellington City Council has chosen Stratum Management to develop 20 new homes and three commercial units on the site. Eight two-level apartments are proposed to sit above the commercial units. Twelve two- and three-level townhouses are planned for the back of the site, with parking and gardens for residents.

Stratum Management director Craig Stewart said the company expects a high-quality hospitality offering on the ground floor, facing Karori Rd. While negotiations for the site have been under way, a farmers’ market and food trucks have been brought in to liven up the empty space. Named “Campbells Corner,” it’s become a popular community space, with some locals expressing their disappointment on social media about the development plans.

But the Karori Business Association was pleased with the news. “Modern commercial spaces are so appealing. This truly will help to invigorate the area,” the association said on social media.

Wellington City Council chief planning officer Liam Hodgetts said the developers had a strong track record with previous projects. “This development is timely with a growing demand for affordable housing, but the other benefits are significant as the site is also within walking distance of the town centre, the local library, public transport, and schools,” he said. Hodgetts added the development was sustainable and integrates te ao Māori design.

Stratum is offering $10,000 grants to some first-home buyers looking to purchase one of the apartments or townhouses. Construction is due to start in mid-2025, and is estimated to take around a year.

Sincerely,

John Smith