Beachlands locals voice concerns over ongoing development construction

Beachlands locals are on edge as a new development project transforms the former Formosa Golf Resort into a new coastal community.

The multibillion-dollar project has caused concern among residents regarding the scale of the development and its impact on the local area.

Beachland’s residents have shared mixed opinions on the development plans.

Many people share significant concerns but still acknowledge the growth of the area.

“The locals are not impressed with the ongoing construction disruption,” says local resident, Nick McCorkindale.

He says, “I hear construction noises all morning till early afternoon and I could only imagine it’s not just disturbing me and my family in the area.”

McCorkindale said that the construction disturbs his work time focus, and that his dogs have been barking constantly since construction began.

Implemented in late 2025, the long-term development plan is set to transform the 307-hectare site into a residential complex over 15 to 20 years.

It is expected to build around 3000 to 4000 homes including apartments and terrace houses.

Led by the partnership of NZ Super Fund, Russell Property Group, local iwi, Ngāi Tai ki Tamaki and Hāpai.

The project will feature a redesigned nine-hole golf course along with a village centre, high school and community facilities.

While some are welcoming the housing development, many locals are worried about the impact on infrastructure, traffic and the area's rural charm.

Another local resident, Carolyn Brooke, says her concern is the infrastructure strain.

Brooke says that “the existing private water supply in newer parts of Beachlands is being pushed due to the increasing water and demand on local resources in the area.”

Brooke questions what the council plans to do with the drinking water for the subdivision planned at Formosa.

According to a recent Auckland Council report, the Franklin Board has voiced their concerns for managing wastewater and protecting the ecology of the area.

The board has asked for upgrades to road and intersections, more walking and cycling infrastructure, and more public transport options.

Formosa’s general manager, Clive Wardle, assures that “It will enable the completion of the Beachlands community in a master planned and consentful way.”

“The Beachlands South project offers a variety of housing types, employment, recreation and educational opportunities that will benefit the locals and wider Auckland region,” Wardle says.

As more people are taking up residency in Auckland, ‘Beachlands South’ sustainably contributes to the city’s need for new housing.

However, there have been no proposed solutions to manage noise disturbance in the area and other issues faced by the locals.

While local boards and residents continue to express their concerns about the development and the impact on the area, the project is moving forward in a ‘master plannedway’.

*AI was not used in the creation of this story