Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop has welcomed the fast-track approval of a significant metropolitan development in Auckland. Kiwi Property Holdings submitted the application in April 2025 for the 53-hectare Drury Metropolitan Centre in South Auckland, which has now been approved by an expert panel.
Project Overview
The Drury Metropolitan Centre will develop land for future residential use and a mixed-use centre. The project includes approximately 10,000 m² of commercial space, 56,000 m² of retail, and 2,000 m² dedicated to community activities.
Economic and Employment Impact
Minister Bishop highlighted that the development is expected to contribute over $1.45 billion to Auckland’s economy over the next 11 years. It is projected to generate around 3,420 full-time direct employment roles in construction and related services, providing a significant boost to local employment.
Infrastructure and Transport Upgrades
The government is investing heavily in Drury and the surrounding area, including the construction of new train stations at Drury, Ngākoroa, Paerātā, and electrification of the rail line to Pukekohe. Key roading projects include the Papakura to Drury upgrade with additional lanes on SH1, wide shoulders for future bus services, and extensive interchange improvements at Drury. Upgrades to Waihoehoe Road and the SH22 Drury Corridor will also enhance access to the new train stations and support long-term growth and housing.
Fast-track Approvals and Future Growth
The Drury Metropolitan Centre is the fifth project to receive fast-track approval this year, following developments such as Maitahi Village in Nelson, Milldale Development in Auckland, the Port of Auckland expansion, and the reconsenting of the Tekapo A and B hydro scheme.
Minister Bishop stated, “Fast track is delivering – it’s helping address our infrastructure deficit, boosting housing supply, and creating jobs and growth for the future.”
Additionally, the Fast-track Approvals Amendment Bill, which had its first reading in Parliament recently, aims to further accelerate projects through the approval system and enhance the efficiency of the Act.