Important Facts of the News
- Application for the Drury Metropolitan Centre was lodged on 4 April 2025.
- The project covers 53 hectares in South Auckland.
- Development includes about 10,000 m² commercial, 56,000 m² retail, and 2,000 m² community space.
- Estimated economic benefit of more than NZD 1.45 billion over 11 years.
- About 3,420 full-time direct construction and related jobs expected.
- Panel convened on 30 July 2025 and draft decision released on 21 October 2025.
- Pukekohe rail electrification opened to passengers in February 2025.
- Drury and Paerata stations to open in 2026, Ngakoroa station in 2027.
- Papakura to Drury roading project: Stage 1A (Apr 2021 to Aug 2024), Stage 1B (Nov 2024 to 2030).
- SH22 Drury and Waihoehoe Road upgrade work scheduled to begin in 2025.
- Drury Metropolitan Centre is the fifth project to receive Fast-track approval this year.
- Fast-track Approvals Act lists 149 eligible projects since 7 February.
Major Auckland Development Clears Fast-track Path
A key metropolitan development in South Auckland has secured Fast-track approval, marking a major step towards transforming the Drury area into a new urban hub. The expert panel has endorsed Kiwi Property Holdings’ plan for the large-scale Drury Metropolitan Centre, which was first submitted in April 2025.
What the Drury Metropolitan Centre Will Deliver
Spread across 53 hectares, the project is designed to support future housing along with a mixed-use town centre. The plan features around 10,000 square metres for commercial activities, 56,000 square metres of retail space, and a further 2,000 square metres to serve community needs.
Over the coming 11 years, it is expected to add more than NZD 1.45 billion to Auckland’s economy. Around 3,420 full-time roles are forecast during the construction phase and associated services, highlighting strong job creation for the region.
Transport and Infrastructure to Support Growth
Investment in key transport links is underway to support the growing Drury catchment. New train stations at Drury, Ngakoroa and Paerata will enhance rail access, supported by the recently completed electrification of the Pukekohe line, which began carrying passengers in February 2025.
Road improvements are also scaling up. The Papakura to Drury motorway upgrade includes extra lanes on State Highway 1, design enhancements for future bus services, and improvements to the Drury interchange. Stage 1A was completed in August 2024, while Stage 1B is progressing and scheduled to finish in 2030. Work on SH22 Drury and Waihoehoe Road is due to start this year to improve access to new train stations and long-term residential growth areas.
Part of a Series of Fast-track Projects
This is the fifth development granted Fast-track approval in 2025. Others include the Maitahi Village in Nelson, the Milldale development in Auckland, the Port of Auckland expansion plans, and renewed consents for the Tekapo A and B hydro scheme.
The Fast-track Approvals Act gives 149 named projects the option to seek panel consideration, with additional proposals also able to apply for referral. The government has indicated that the newly introduced Fast-track Approvals Amendment Bill aims to make the process faster and more efficient.
Projects Approved by Expert Panels So Far
- Bledisloe North Wharf and Fergusson North Berth Extension (Infrastructure)
- Maitahi Village (Housing)
- Milldale Stages 4C and 10 to 13 (Housing)
- Tekapo Power Scheme Replacement Consents (Renewable Energy)
- Drury Metropolitan Centre Stages 1 and 2 (Housing)