Whitianga Waterways

Whitianga is a charming coastal township located on the beautiful Coromandel Peninsula, renowned for its breathtaking natural wonders, including the world-famous Cathedral Cove and the rejuvenating hot springs at the Lost Spring Spa. Conveniently situated, Whitianga is just a 2.5-hour drive from Auckland's CBD or a swift 25-minute flight away with Barrier Air.

In recent times, Whitianga has emerged as a favoured locale for many looking to plant their roots. The growth has invigorated the township, leading to burgeoning retail spaces, enhanced community amenities, and the distinctive allure of a coastal lifestyle made reality. Why vacation where you could reside at Whitianga Waterways, where the fusion of land and sea comes effortlessly, setting the stage for an array of outdoor pursuits, from boating to surfing, biking, and hiking, the opportunities for adventure are boundless.

How it all started

Leigh Hopper, Owner/Director of Hopper Developments, first dreamt of what Whitianga could become after flying over Whitianga countless times over the process of constructing Pauanui  Waterways. Pauanui Waterways being first comprehensive coastal project of its kind in New Zealand - and the basic model to base Whitianga Waterways. “With business interests in Auckland, and Pauanui Waterways in progression I would regularly fly between the office in Orewa and Pauanui, sighting Whitianga below as I went along my route. The opportunity of replicating a waterways-style development at Whitianga was clearly evident from aloft. And in 1997 we purchased a strategic 73ha landholding in the flat lands of Whitianga and put a joint venture proposition to four adjoining land owners (Abrahamson, Maclardy, Humphries). Deal done, a new company 'Whitianga Waterways Ltd' was formed.”

Forging ahead with the Waterways required intricate planning for the expansive 220+ ha area, including environmental evaluations. "Creating Whitianga Waterways posed its unique challenges. It demanded the rerouting of the state highway to carve canals into the landscape while ensuring seamless access to the town. Extending the airfield for anticipated aerial services, enhancing crucial sewage and water systems for the 1500-lot project, and securing plans with major retailers were all pivotal," Leigh recalls.

Hopper Developments

Hoppers - creating communities and enriching lifestyles.

Whitianga Waterways is the second, and largest comprehensive canal development by Hopper Developments. With a legacy spanning over 70 years, Hoppers is a distinguished family-owned entity, flourishing under the watchful eye and of its seasoned team, including third generation family members. Unwavering in their commitment to deliver property options that foster vibrant communities and present unparalleled lifestyle choices.

While primarily a land development company, Hoppers has diversified into housing construction, retirement village development, civil construction and infrastructure financing and management. All projects undertaken by Hoppers follow a set of common principles which entail detailed planning and innovation resulting in excellent products and services.