Arc Onehunga is one of Aotearoa’s first purpose-built build-to-rent communities: three low rise walk ups, set respectfully behind a 160 year old pōhutukawa on Selwyn Street. Two natural constraints—the protected tree above and a lava-tube cave below, became the project’s defining assets.

Preparing the resource consent package, Construkt shaped a 16m root-protection setback, bridged new foundations over the subterranean void, and wrapped 48 dual aspect one and two bedroom homes around a sunny communal court. Each apartment enjoys daylight, cross ventilation and borrowed greenery from the heritage canopy.

Warm brick fins, charcoal metal panels and finely screened balconies reference Onehunga’s industrial past, while delivering long life durability. A Homestar 6 envelope, rooftop photovoltaics, heat pump hot water and secure bike parking, support Arc’s “love renting” ethos.

Key outcomes
– Heritage pōhutukawa retained and celebrated as the community’s green heart.
– Foundations engineered to span a lava-tube cave, protecting geological and cultural values.
– 48 dual-aspect apartments (equal mix of one- and two-bed) arranged around a landscaped court.
– Homestar 6 rating, rooftop solar powering common areas, EV-ready parking.
– 32 car parks plus secure cycle storage encourage sustainable travel choices.