Resource consent has been granted for stage one of Falcon Rise, a premium residential lakefront development by local developers Quartz Development Group.
The subdivision is being built on the site of the Lake Hāwea Hotel.
Quartz Development Group managing director Matt Laming said the first stage included 17 residential lots, some priced up to $2.1 million, with nine already sold.
The development is located just off Capell Ave at the entrance to Lake Hāwea and is part of a broader redevelopment plan that includes a new commercial precinct and hospitality offerings.
Mr Laming said the new precinct would enhance Lake Hāwea, rejuvenating the township with better hospitality and social spaces.
Plans are in place to relocate the hotel further up Capell Ave, near the current Hāwea Store & Kitchen.
This new facility will be called Lake Hāwea Hotel & Residences.
The existing Hāwea Hotel will remain operational for the foreseeable future, with accommodation bookings still being taken until at least April 2026.
The restaurant and bar will remain open beyond that date.
Mr Laming said planned works starting soon included the disestablishment of the restaurant’s garden bar.
In its place will be a new lawn, utilised as a semi-permanent stage for events.
"A modern, quality hospitality offering is exactly what the township needs and we’re looking forward to seeing that take shape and building something that will service the Hāwea community for decades to come," he said.
Once operational, Lake Hāwea Hotel & Residences is expected to create around 40 new jobs in the area.
"At this stage we’re hoping to begin the earthworks within the next four weeks, starting with some vegetation removal.
"The high level of interest was to be expected ... buyers so far have strong connections to Hāwea — some are already here, with some people looking to return." Mr Laming said.
While the original consent application was for 20 lots, the final three lots will be subject to a separate consent.
"Despite our best efforts, Queenstown Lakes District Council at this stage has not been able to find a logical solution to mitigating urban design effects for the remaining three lots.
"Regrettably we have had to modify the initial plan to allow us to get under way while that is resolved.
"This means there may be an extended period of traffic disruption during the construction phase and potentially a final design outcome that is less appealing to the local community," Mr Laming said.— Allied Media
