Te Katonga Nui Officially Launched.

Taranaki Iwi in partnership with Ngā Mahanga hapū, has officially launched Te Katonga Nui, the newest housing development in Ōkato – in collaboration with Ka Uruora.

Te Katonga Nui, named by Ngā Mahanga, recalls a historic tidal wave or flood and also symbolises the movement of hapū and iwi whānau returning home to Ōkato. The development marks a major milestone for Taranaki Iwi in fulfilling the housing aspirations of its whānau – a cornerstone of the iwi post-settlement strategy.

The project will deliver 16 standalone 3 & 4-bedroom whānau homes (with an additional six kaumātua units proposed) to the coastal community of Ōkato on the site of the former Ōkato Primary School, which was purchased by Taranaki Iwi as part of its Deed of Settlement.

Homes and Environment.

The homes, designed by Prime Designs with exterior palettes curated by Stage Three Design, are modern, spacious, and fully fenced with generous backyards. Each home offers easy indoor-outdoor living and a single garage, with a focus on comfort, energy efficiency, and healthy, sustainable living. Construction begins November 2025, with the first homes ready for whānau in early 2026.

The public landscaping for Te Katonga Nui, led by Brad Dobson of blac projects in consultation with Ngā Mahanga hapū, recognises the importance of the awa and local ecology. The project includes restoration of Te Mangaone Stream, a weir, constructed wetland, pathways, seating, and a tuna sculpture, along with pedestrian links to the Ōkato Skatepark and playground.

Mark Wipatene, Pou Koriki Te Kāhui o Taranaki Trust says "Te Katonga Nui is more than just housing. It is a reconnection to our whenua and to our vision ‘me tōngai harakeke’ – grounding us in our place, our story, and ourselves.”

Te Waka Mcleod, Pou Arataki Ka Uruora Taranaki explains the housing opportunities at Te Katonga Nui: "We are proud to partner with Taranaki Iwi to deliver affordable, sustainable housing solutions. These high quality homes will provide pathways into progressive homeownership, affordable rentals, and proposed kaumātua housing – making a real difference for whānau.”

For Ngā Mahanga hapū and Taranaki Iwi members interested in a new whare at Te Katonga Nui, please register with Ka Uruora Taranaki