An elevated 15.87ha development site, recently rezoned residential and situated beyond Westport’s flood risk zone, is now on the market at Alma Road, Cape Foulwind.
“As the only large-lot residential land available in the Buller region, this is a unique offering capable of accommodating up to 150 sections,” says Michael Lough, Investment Sales Broker at Colliers Christchurch and the exclusive agent for the property.
Draft concept plans and a favourable geotechnical report have already been completed to support future subdivision applications.
“With Westport’s residential land supply critically constrained and the last major subdivision dating back a decade, there is strong demand for sections on higher ground away from flood-prone areas.”
Start your property search
Located at the start of Alma Road, this property presents an opportunity for developers to secure a strategic landholding in a location identified as key for Westport’s future residential growth, as it is beyond the flood risk zone highlighted in the town’s long-term resilience strategy.
Following devastating floods in 2021 and 2022, the Buller District Council endorsed the Resilient Westport plan in March, which formally includes retreat options and envisions new growth areas on safer terrain.
Council has also secured $13.6 million of government funding to deliver key infrastructure to the site that includes sewer and water pipelines, and an upgrade to the Alma Road–State Highway 67 intersection.
The Alma Road frontage presents additional opportunities for more commercially orientated uses such as retail, hospitality, or community facilities.
As the third-largest township on the West Coast and the administrative centre for the Buller District, Westport is currently thriving and enjoys low commercial property vacancy.
Lough says his recent sale of Westport’s Kawatiri Health medical centre attracted nine offers, with strong interest from New Zealand and Australian property investors. He also recently sold The Westport Kiwi Holiday Park & Motels – a 5.4ha land parcel and freehold going concern.
Westport’s housing market is demonstrating strong fundamentals for residential development and remains highly affordable compared with national averages.
As of September 2025, Westport’s median sale price stabilised at $429,000 (up 3 per cent annually), while median weekly rents are estimated at $470 (up 4 to 5 per cent from June 2024), according to Real Estate Institute of New Zealand sales data and the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment Tenancy Services rental information.
“There is currently a critical shortage of residential sections in Westport, particularly in new subdivisions located away from known inundation areas,” Lough says.
“The last major subdivision was on lower-lying land and has since experienced flooding. Given these conditions, we anticipate good demand for developed sections at this location once subdivision and titles are completed.”
The Alma Road property offers residential-zoned land suitable for sections ranging from 300sq m to 350sq m.
“Its elevated position provides long-term security from environmental risks, while the natural native reserve setting creates an attractive amenity for future residents.”
The site also presents opportunities for phased development, allowing builders to bring sections to market progressively as demand dictates.
“This represents one of the most promising opportunities in the Buller District. Whether you’re considering immediate subdivision or landbanking for future gains, the fundamentals are compelling.”
The property is for sale by deadline private treaty closing at 4pm on Tuesday 16 December, unless sold prior.
- Supplied by Colliers
