14 November 2007 Connecting Lincoln University with Lincoln Township after 130 years

The development of 117 hectares on the western edge of the town will achieve a long-anticipated connection between the town and the Lincoln University central campus. It will create up to 1,000 sections, to be released in stages over the next 12 years, and may result in additional community services and education facilities in the area.

Both partners have a strong interest in sustainable development and are committed to capturing international best practice in designing residential subdivisions for low environmental impacts and optimum social benefits.

Ngāi Tahu Property General Manager Tony Sewell says the development will include numerous features of a sensitive development, including linking natural areas with ecological and recreational values, and providing for strong pedestrian linkages.

“We’re extremely pleased to partner with an organisation that shares our commitment to these design principles and social objectives." 

Tony Sewell says the development builds upon a strong relationship with Lincoln University. “This joint venture is a good example of a private company partnering with a Crown entity to maximise the value of an asset and also make a real difference in the community.”

The development partners liken the move to the connection of two neighbouring towns – Lincoln township with a population of around 4000, and the University and neighbouring Crown Research Institutes with 1000 staff and a student population of 4500. 

Lincoln University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Roger Field, says the development is an historic step forward for the Lincoln area, as a knowledge hub of the country, and for the development of the region.

“We’re delighted to be in partnership with Ngāi Tahu for a carefully planned and managed development of the community we’ve been a part of for 130 years. It’s also a unique opportunity to work with our tangata whenua partner to support their aspirations.”

The former dairy block no longer has strategic value to the University’s core research and education activities. It was decommissioned as a research farm when the University established a new 160ha dairy property on dryland between Lincoln and Springston, in 2001.

About Lincoln University
Lincoln University continues to achieve international recognition for its teaching and research activities. It is renowned for its entrepreneurship, relevance and as a catalyst for new and diverse approaches to stimulate the development and transfer of knowledge. The University fosters alliances with the users of research information both nationally and internationally and has established a number of significant alliances with other research organisations. 

About Ngāi Tahu Property
Ngāi Tahu Property is a property investment and development company based in Te Waipounamu (South Island) with the majority of its investments and developments concentrated in the greater Christchurch and Queenstown areas. Ngāi Tahu Property has a long-term vision of being the preferred supplier of accommodation to the crown, crown agencies and local government. www.ngaitahuproperty.co.nz

Elizabeth Owens, External Relations Director, Lincoln University, Canterbury, New Zealand

Janet Wright, Communications Manager, Ngāi Tahu, Christchurch, New Zealand