A guide to developing papakāinga
Created: February 13, 2025 at 2:22 PM | Updated: March 2, 2026 | By NZ Navigator Trust
Te Puni Kōkiri supports the development of small-scale papakāinga (generally 3-10 houses) on whenua Māori.
Their focus is on rōpū who wish to establish an intentional Te Ao Māori papakāinga community that maintains a connection to their whenua, where identity and whakapapa can come together, which enables intergenerational living and strengthens cultural and spiritual identity and te reo Māori.
Papakāinga will often help provide a base for whānau and community enterprises.
If you are an organisation looking to undertake this sort of development project in your community, you'll find their comprehensive guide covers:
- Papakāinga planning
- Infrastructure for new homes on Whenua Māori
- Planning tools
- Funding opportunities and more
In the resources section, download an overview guide - 'Guide to Papakāinga Housing' - that includes a 'planning and feasibility checklist' and a 'project viability assessment tool' that includes detailed financial planning.
Te Puni Kōkiri is available to provide appropriate advice and support. You can find more information on Māori Housing here.