Building boom in Pipiriki

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 1, Issue 27, 6 December 1983, Page 7

Building boom in Pipiriki

The tentative proposal to build as many as 15 new houses next year can only be described as a building boom of major proportions for that quiet little community on the banks of the Wanganui River. With less than a dozen existing houses in Pipiriki at the present time the construction 'of another dozen or so more new homes over the next 12 months means that Pipiriki's accommodation — and per-

haps population — will be boosted by about 100%. But this depends on demand and the job opportunities in the area, said Mr Dennis Cook, assistant director of the Maori Affairs Department in Wanganui. "The new houses are basic, modern, low-cost homes will all the latest mod cons and fulfil local authority building codes and by-laws ... but they still cost money and have to be paid for. Deposits have to be

found and mortgages have to be serviced," said Mr Cook. So it depends on prospective home owners to find work in the area ... this will determine the number we end up with, he said. Three are already bepig built — by Nick Heubers of Wanganui — and tenders are being called for another six. Those that are under construction are to replace existing homes that are too old and dilapidated to restore. The other six will

probably house Winstone Afforestation staff. At last month's meeting of the Waimarino County Council it was suggested that as many as 20 new houses may eventually be required in Pipiriki. Some of these new houses

might accommodate those people who will have to live in Pipiriki to service the tourist facilities there when the Wanganui River Road and the Raetihi-Pipiriki Road are upgraded to carry tourist traffic.