A "sacred Maori site" in south Auckland has been purchased by Fletcher Residential where it plans to build about 480 houses. The completion of the purchase comes despite months of protest by activist group SOUL (Save Our Unique Landscape) and other members of the Mangere community. They said the land was unjustly confiscated from mana whenua in 1863. Fletcher Residential general manager, Ken Lotu-I'iga said the 33.8-hectare property is set to be a "wonderful new neighbourhood" of stand-alone homes and terrace housing. "It will also include the affordable housing which many Aucklanders so desperately need." The exact location of caves and midden have been identified and Fletcher said they will not be building on any of those areas. Additionally, an old farm house and some significant trees will remain untouched. [See stuff.co.nz https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/87977346/fletcher-residential-buys-land-at-ihumatao-in-south-auckland]

This open green space, and a heritage site of cultural and historical significance, is available to all New Zealanders and tourists to walk on and, experience it's wonder and magic. People are free to cycle or drive along the scenic lonely roads and to enjoy the outstanding natural features and landscapes, which feels a million miles from the hussle and bussle of busy Manukau and Auckland cities. However, this is being redeveloped into housing.

What is a Special Housing Area? (SHA)

What are special housing areas (SHA)?

To help combat Auckland's housing crisis, SHAs were established across the city where fast-track development of housing, including affordable housing, could take place.

Most SHAs had to have a percentage allocated to affordable housing for any consented development over 14 dwellings.

Some SHA developments voluntarily provided more than the criteria required [From Auckland council's website]

Further reading check out Save Our Unique Landscape's (SOUL) website