THE Koroipita Model Town is set for significant growth, with plans to increase its capacity to 415 houses and a population of approximately 1850 people by 2029.
Model Towns Charitable Trust general manager Paul Forrest confirmed that the community consists of 331 occupied houses with a population of 1525. To date, 361 houses have been constructed, and the trust aims to build 23 more this year.
The immediate focus remains on completing 58 houses within the K5 stage over the next two years. However, the trust is already looking toward the future to address the growing need for affordable houses.
”The board is considering options of either another stage (K6) or perhaps another Model Town in a new location,” Mr Forrest said.
“Demand for housing certainly justifies more consideration of this topic and we are gathering information on this to present to our funding partners.”
The scale of demand is reflected in the trust’s records.
In 2025 alone, 245 applications for housing were received, contributing to a total of 1908 applications since 2013.
Mr Forrest said the vetting process was rigorous to ensure help reached those in greatest need.
”We are currently vetting these applications to filter those most vulnerable, those with young families, and most importantly those who are willing to participate in the family advancement plan we have in place.”
Koroipita operates under a specific set of community rules, with a heavy emphasis on education and personal development.
“Residents are required to ensure their children attend school, supported by facilities for learning, counselling, sports, a girls’ club, and environmental activities.
“Koroipita is not just social housing, it is a university for life-skills where dreams can come true.
“We are always pleased to see people prospering under these programs we and our partner organisations provide.”
The impact of the program is also being felt in the local economy.
Mr Forrest noted that the disciplined environment of the Model Town is producing reliable employees.
”It is great to see employer confidence growing in our residents.
“Koroipita-trained people are performing terrifically in the workplace and are realising the rewards of having high work and social ethics.”
