Leasing of Reserve Land – Huntly West Domain (Matawhaanui Trust)
Waikato District Council gives notice of an application for a new lease over part of the Huntly West Domain.
Application Details
Under Section 73 of the Reserves Act 1977, Waikato District Council, as the administering body, has received an application from Matawhaanui Trust (“the Trust”) to lease a vacant building located within the Huntly West Domain. In addition to the building footprint, the Trust is seeking further land to support the development of a car park and associated hardscaping.
The Trust recently purchased the former Chorus building at 49 Harris Street, adjacent to the proposed lease area, with the aim of revitalising the Huntly West community. The expansion of the Trust’s services will create new opportunities for wellbeing services and a place for fostering connection.
The proposed lease will enable the Trust to establish a community hub—a vibrant and inclusive space where Maaori and the wider community can access health services, participate in Kaupapa Maaori initiatives, and foster meaningful relationships that promote collective wellbeing. The proposed lease area includes the footpath currently used by members of the Public. However, the Council will include a clause in the lease to protect its interest and ensure continued public access to the Huntly West Domain.
Please find an overview of Matawhaanui Trust’s Long-Term Plan for the project in the Document Library. Note that Stage 1 will take place within the Trust’s property boundary, while part of Stage 2 will occur within the Huntly West Domain.
Lease Terms
The lease is proposed for an initial term of 10 years, with two rights of renewal for further terms of 10 years each. Rent will be determined in accordance with the Council’s Leasing of Reserve Land Policy.
Legal Description and Location
The recreation reserve is legally described as Part Lot 9 DPS 316. The lease area is more specifically defined on the plan below.
Public Notification
In accordance with Section 119 of the Reserves Act 1977, Council is required to publicly notify its intention to grant this lease. This notice serves to inform and invite feedback from the community.
How you can contribute
Submissions on the proposed lease can be made using the interactive form below.
Alternatively, download a PDF form here.
Any person wishing to make a submission or objection in respect of the above proposal is required to lodge this no later than 5pm on Friday 28th November 2025 :
Contacting us at Strategic.Property@waidc.govt.nz with any questions or submissions.
or;
Printed submissions can be dropped into any Waikato District Council Office, Hub or Library or can be sent to:
The Property Officer
Waikato District Council
Private Bag 544
Ngaaruawaahia 3742
Note: Please indicate if you wish to present your submission to the hearings panel.
Submissions on this application will be made publicly available, however contact and personal details will be withheld.
