A proposal for a 29-lot subdivision in the quiet village of Makarora could mark its first major development in many years.

Aspiring Tourism Holdings has submitted a resource consent application for a new subdivision on a 3.1 hectare site within the Makarora settlement.

If approved, it will feature large lots of 1000m2 and above, located on Rata Road, a stone’s throw from Makarora’s school and campground.

Specific figures on the population of Makarora are hard to come by but the 2018 census said ‘Outer Wānaka’, a 3,176.08 km2 area which includes Makarora, had just 399 residents.

The proposed subdivision would be located in the area within the green lines, off the state highway and Rata Road.

This was an increase of 21 people since the 2013 census and an increase of 63 since the 2006 census.

The local school has just nine students. 

Application documents completed on behalf of developer Aspiring Tourism Holdings Limited reference growing demand for homes in Makarora, which is close to an hour’s drive from Wānaka.

The site is located on an outwash river terrace above the Makarora River and a wetland and creek run through the site.

The sections have been arranged to help manage the constraints of the site, which also includes some heritage features and existing dwellings, according to the application, as well as a lot marked on application drawings as a wastewater treatment area.

Makarora Valley Community Association was approached for comment.

QLDC is currently considering the application. 

PHOTO: Supplied