Quick Answer: Plimmerton Farm is one of the largest new residential developments in the Wellington region, with consented capacity for up to 2,000-2,400 homes across multiple stages. Earthworks are underway on the first 125 sections in Zone 2, with titles expected from late 2026. If you’re planning to build, now is the time to start talking to a builder.
What’s in This Guide
- What Is Plimmerton Farm?
- Development Timeline
- What Types of Homes Can You Build?
- How Much Does It Cost to Build?
- Choosing a Builder for Plimmerton Farm
- Why Choose Clearcut for Your Plimmerton Build
- Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Plimmerton Farm?
Plimmerton Farm is a master-planned community being developed by Gillies Group on 280 hectares of former farmland between Plimmerton and Pukerua Bay, just north of Porirua. It’s one of the largest greenfield residential projects in the Wellington region and across New Zealand right now.
The development has consented capacity for around 2,000-2,400 homes across multiple stages, ranging from standalone houses to townhouses and duplexes. The first stage alone covers roughly 880-1,050 dwellings plus supporting infrastructure. It sits right next to the existing Plimmerton Heights subdivision, which has already delivered its first stages of sections.
The masterplan goes beyond just housing. Gillies Group has designed Plimmerton Farm as a complete community with:
- A school superlot earmarked for delivery from 2028
- A retirement village planned from 2027
- Commercial and retail areas with early works starting in 2026
- Parks, reserves, and walking tracks throughout the development
- A new local centre to serve the wider Plimmerton community
The terrain offers many sections with sea views across to Kapiti Island and Mana Island, and the location gives easy access to State Highway 1 and the Plimmerton train station for commuting into Wellington CBD.
Plimmerton Farm Development Timeline
Development is already underway. Here’s where things stand and what’s coming next.
| Milestone | Timing | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 2 earthworks begin | Late May 2026 | First 125 lots, bulk earthworks and roading |
| Infrastructure build | 2026 | New reservoir, wastewater pump station, stormwater systems |
| First titles issued | Late 2026 / Early 2027 | Zone 2 sections available for building |
| Commercial area early works | 2026 | Retail and commercial spaces |
| Retirement village | From 2027 | Dedicated retirement living area |
| School superlot | From 2028 | Land set aside for a new school |
The key infrastructure work includes a new reservoir near the top of the development and upgrades to wastewater capacity with a new pump station. Stormwater management has been designed to handle the sloping terrain with retention systems throughout.
What Types of Homes Can You Build at Plimmerton Farm?
Plimmerton Farm will accommodate a range of housing types to suit different budgets and lifestyles. Based on the masterplan and what we’ve seen at the neighbouring Plimmerton Heights development, you can expect:
- Standalone homes on individual sections, typically 400-600m2
- Townhouses and duplexes on smaller lots, ideal for first-home buyers or investors
- Future apartment living around the commercial centre in later stages
At the adjacent Plimmerton Heights, buyers can choose their own builder rather than being locked into a single building company. This is a significant advantage because it means you can work with a builder who understands your vision and budget rather than being forced into a one-size-fits-all package.
Design considerations for building at Plimmerton Farm include:
- Terrain: Many sections will be on sloping ground, which may require specific foundation designs
- Wind: The elevated, coastal position means wind-resistant design matters
- Views: Smart floor plan orientation can capture sea views toward Kapiti and Mana Islands
- Sun: North-facing living areas are important for warmth and energy efficiency in Wellington’s climate
How Much Does It Cost to Build at Plimmerton Farm?
Build costs in the Wellington region vary depending on the size, finish level, and site complexity. For a comprehensive breakdown, check out our guide on the cost to build a house in New Zealand.
Here’s a general guide for new builds in the Wellington area:
| Home Size | Floor Area | Estimated Build Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 3-bedroom standalone | 120-150m2 | $480,000 – $675,000 |
| 4-bedroom standalone | 160-200m2 | $640,000 – $900,000 |
| 4-bedroom premium | 200-250m2 | $900,000 – $1,250,000 |
| Townhouse / Duplex | 80-120m2 | $320,000 – $540,000 |
Costs are approximate and based on 2026 Wellington building rates of $4,000-$5,000/m2 for standard builds and $4,500-$5,500/m2 for premium specifications. Site-specific factors like retaining walls, steep access, or complex foundations can add 10-20% to these figures.
Section prices at Plimmerton Farm haven’t been publicly released yet, but based on comparable sections at Plimmerton Heights and other Porirua developments, you can expect to pay anywhere from $350,000 to $550,000+ depending on size, views, and location within the development.
Choosing a Builder for Plimmerton Farm
Picking the right builder for a new subdivision like Plimmerton Farm is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Here’s what to look for:
- Local Wellington experience: A builder who knows the Wellington region understands the specific challenges of building here, from wind loading to council requirements
- New subdivision track record: Building on a new section has different requirements to renovating or building on an established site. Your builder should have experience working with new subdivisions, including managing council consents, coordinating with developers, and dealing with new infrastructure connections
- Design-build capability: The best builders can help you through the entire process from initial design concepts through to handing over the keys, rather than just the construction phase
- Transparent pricing: Look for a fixed-price contract so you know exactly what your build will cost before committing. Avoid builders who work on a “cost-plus” basis without clear limits
- Communication: Building a home takes months. You need a builder who keeps you informed throughout and is easy to get hold of when you have questions
Start talking to builders early. Even before you have a section confirmed, a good builder can help you understand what’s realistic for your budget, what design options work for the terrain, and what consents you’ll need from Porirua City Council.
Why Choose Clearcut for Your Plimmerton Farm Build
Clearcut Builders is a Wellington-based building company with deep experience in residential new builds across the region. Our new build homes service in Wellington covers everything from initial design through to handover.
Here’s what sets us apart for a Plimmerton Farm build:
- Wellington locals: We know the region, the council processes, and the specific building requirements for the Porirua area
- Full design-build service: We work with you from concept through to completion, managing architects, engineers, and subcontractors
- New subdivision specialists: We understand the process of building on new sections, from developer requirements to infrastructure connections
- Fixed-price contracts: No surprises. You know the cost before we start building
- Quality materials: We use premium New Zealand building products and stand behind our workmanship
If you’re thinking about building at Plimmerton Farm, we’d love to have an early conversation about what’s possible. The sooner you start planning, the better positioned you’ll be when sections become available.
Frequently Asked Questions
When can I start building at Plimmerton Farm?
Earthworks on the first 125 lots (Zone 2) are scheduled to begin in late May 2026. Titles are expected from late 2026 or early 2027, which is when you’ll be able to start building. However, you can start the design and planning process now so you’re ready to go as soon as your section settles.
Can I choose my own builder at Plimmerton Farm?
Based on the neighbouring Plimmerton Heights development (also by Gillies Group), buyers are expected to be able to choose their own builder. This means you’re not locked into using one building company and can pick a builder that suits your style, budget, and preferences.
How much will sections cost at Plimmerton Farm?
Section prices haven’t been officially released yet. Comparable sections in the Porirua and northern Wellington area are currently selling for $350,000 to $550,000+ depending on size and position. We’ll update this information once Gillies Group announces pricing.
How long does a new build take from start to finish?
A typical new build in Wellington takes 6 to 10 months from breaking ground to handover, depending on the size and complexity of the home. The full process including design, consents, and construction usually takes 12 to 18 months. Starting early with a builder means you can have consents ready to go when your title is issued.
What building consents do I need?
You’ll need a building consent from Porirua City Council, which covers structural design, plumbing, electrical, and compliance with the New Zealand Building Code. Depending on the section and design, you may also need a resource consent if the build doesn’t meet permitted activity standards under the district plan. Your builder should manage this process for you.
Is Plimmerton Farm a good investment?
New subdivisions in Wellington’s growth corridors have historically performed well as housing demand in the region continues to outpace supply. Plimmerton Farm’s scale, coastal location, and planned community amenities (school, retail, retirement village) suggest strong long-term value. However, property investment always carries risk, and you should seek independent financial advice before making any investment decisions.
