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CDI Advances Middle Road Project with Fast-track Referral Approval

Real Estate By Eva Park 2 min read

CDL Investments New Zealand (NZX: CDI) has secured Fast-track referral approval for its Middle Road residential development in Havelock North, paving the way for up to 350 new homes and reinforcing its Hawke’s Bay growth pipeline.

  • Fast-track referral approval granted for Middle Road development
  • Project to deliver 300-350 residential sections in Havelock North
  • Supports regional housing supply and economic activity
  • CDI to prepare substantive application and engage stakeholders
  • Part of CDI’s broader Hawke’s Bay residential development strategy

Fast-track Referral Clears Path for Middle Road Development

CDL Investments New Zealand (CDI) has taken a significant step forward in its residential development ambitions with the Fast-track referral approval for its Middle Road project in Havelock North, Hawke’s Bay. The green light from the Minister signals official recognition of the project’s regional benefits, including a boost to housing supply and economic activity.

The development aims to deliver between 300 and 350 residential sections, a sizeable addition that aligns with regional growth plans and the pressing need for well-planned housing options in the area. This approval accelerates the pathway through regulatory hurdles, potentially shortening the time to market for new homes.

Strategic Importance for Hawke’s Bay Pipeline

CEO Jason Adams emphasised the referral decision as a positive milestone for CDI’s Hawke’s Bay development pipeline. The project not only promises to expand housing choice in Havelock North but also to contribute to sustained regional economic development over time.

CDI now turns its attention to preparing the substantive application, a critical next step in the Fast-track process. The company also plans to deepen engagement with local councils, iwi, technical experts, and other stakeholders to ensure the project advances smoothly and aligns with community expectations.

CDI’s Development Track Record and Market Position

With over 30 years of experience, CDI is a seasoned player in New Zealand’s land development sector, known for delivering high-quality residential, retail, and industrial projects. The Middle Road initiative fits within a broader strategy to maintain disciplined capital allocation and long-term value creation, even as the company navigates a challenging property market environment.

This progress follows CDI’s recent efforts to secure fast-track consents for other projects in the region, indicating a focused push to overcome regulatory delays and respond to housing demand. The company’s majority ownership by Millennium & Copthorne Hotels New Zealand adds depth to its financial and operational backing.

Bottom Line?

The Fast-track referral approval marks a key regulatory milestone for CDI’s Middle Road project, but the timeline and final outcomes will hinge on the substantive application and stakeholder negotiations ahead.

Questions in the middle?

  • How quickly will CDI submit the substantive application following this referral approval?
  • What feedback will local councils and iwi provide during the next engagement phase?
  • How might regional housing market conditions influence the project's ultimate scale and pace?