A significant residential development opportunity overlooking Acacia Bay in one of New Zealand’s most sought-after lifestyle destinations is offered to the market amid a wash of investment across the Central North Island region as it prepares for meaningful population growth.

The 112ha (more or less) freehold landholding at 100 Loch Views Road has been identified as one of only a limited number of properties by Taupō District Council in its recently ratified Future Development Strategy to meet the significant demand.

Bayleys corporate projects and development land sales director Gerald Rundle is marketing the property for sale, inviting Expressions of Interest (unless sold prior) closing at 4:00 pm on Tuesday, 8th April 2025, alongside colleague Kerry Geange.

Rundle says the site’s rezoning to New Residential Environment has unlocked its development potential to allow a mix of residential densities, aligning with significant proposed investment in public infrastructure to support the growing demand for significantly more housing in the region.

“Strategically located a short distance from the Taupō lakefront and minutes from the Town Centre with an elevated aspect, the site captures sweeping views of Lake Taupō, Mount Tauhara and of Two, Three and Four Mile Bays across the lake – setting the stage for a development that maximises both outlook and liveability.

“The appeal of this location is evident in the high calibre of existing homes built in the surrounding area, reinforcing its desirability for developers experienced in the delivery of master planned communities, executive lifestyle properties, or a mix of high-quality residential offerings in response to market demand.

“The property is held under a single title, ensuring a cohesive landholding free from fragmentation. Currently leased and used for cattle grazing, it allows a new owner to generate holding income while finalising development plans,” Rundle says.

The site benefits from three potential access points and existing infrastructure, including road and services, which provides developers with a head start in bringing their vision to life. Prior resource consent activity indicates a potential yield of 480 residential sections of varying sizes, in addition to recreation reserves, a water treatment plant and drainage reserves.

Bayleys Hawke’s Bay commercial director Kerry Geange says that while the Taupō region has been favoured for holiday homes and recreational living, recent years have seen a surge in demand from permanent residents seeking a balance between work and lifestyle.

“The area’s strong tourism and hospitality sectors, along with improved connectivity to major centres and industrial activity, have contributed to its evolution into a year-round destination, with Taupō District Council forecasts indicating a potential population increase of 60 percent by 2060.

“Significant investment into local infrastructure has stimulated local economic activity, fortifying growth in the commercial and industrial sectors. Council population forecasts and local market sentiment now indicate a shortage of residential supply to meet current and future demand, providing a strong incentive for experienced developers to turn their attention to Taupō.

“Given its Central North Island location, easily within reach of major cities like Auckland, Hamilton and Wellington, Taupō is an ideal destination for developers seeking large landholdings with high investment potential.

“With continued strength of lifestyle property demand and the region’s enduring popularity as both a holiday and permanent living destination, the subject property represents a rare opportunity to secure a large-scale development site with unparalleled positioning and potential.

“Developers with an eye for quality and vision for the future will recognise the benefit of timing which has seen the subject property offered to the market amid an improving economic landscape which continues to support the next chapter of Taupō’s growth and development.”