Ōtara MIT sites to be demolished for housing redevelopment

Housing Minister Chris Bishop has announced the demolition of deteriorating and vacant buildings at two former Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT) sites in Ōtara. The move aims to clear more than eight hectares of Crown land for future redevelopment.

The buildings, which are described as being riddled with asbestos, have remained largely unused for years and have become targets for arson, vandalism, and break-ins. Minister Bishop stated that removing the structures is a necessary step to address community safety concerns and reduce the costs associated with maintaining the decaying sites.

The land was originally acquired by the Government in 2019 through the Land for Housing Programme. While two smaller sites have already been developed, the North and South campus sites remain held for housing purposes. The government is currently seeking a zoning change from education-related uses to housing through Plan Change 120. Future development plans are still being determined.