Welcome to Project 1310
Thank you for visiting this page dedicated to Project 1310, Zion Church’s bold initiative to transform our former church site at 1310 Racecourse Road into a vibrant, affordable housing community in partnership with Habitat for Humanity.
Here, you’ll find:
- A clear overview of the project’s vision, purpose, and current status
- Details about the planned housing development
- Insights into our partnership with Habitat for Humanity
- Answers to frequently asked questions from both our church family and the wider community
Whether you’re a long-time member of Zion, a curious neighbour, or someone interested in future housing opportunities, we hope this page helps you understand the heart behind Project 1310 and how you can be part of this transformative journey.
A Brief History
Zion Church has called 1310 Racecourse Road home since 1988, when the original worship centre was opened by Rosetown Community Church. For over three decades, this site has been a place of worship, healing, and transformation for the people of Te Awamutu.
As the building reached the end of its life, our church leadership asked a bold question: “What do we have in our hand that could help our community?” The answer was clear—our land.
By partnering with Habitat for Humanity, we are repurposing this sacred space to meet one of our town’s greatest needs: affordable housing. While we’ve said goodbye to a beloved building, we are embracing a new season of faith, service, and community transformation.
What you need to know
1. Project Overview
Project 1310 is Zion Church’s initiative to transform our former church site into a vibrant, affordable housing community. Here are the key details:
- Location: 1310 Racecourse Road, Te Awamutu
- Project Name: Project 1310
- Partnership: Zion Church & Habitat for Humanity
- Purpose: Redevelopment of church land into affordable housing
2. Current Status (as of 2025)
The project has made significant progress but is currently paused due to the Government funding pause. Here’s where things stand:
- The original church building was decommissioned and demolished March 2024.
- Zion Church relocated to a new building at 38 Churchill Street in June 2023.
- The development is currently on hold due to a Government funding pause.
- The 1310 Racecourse Road site is currently being used to store materials for other local building projects.
3. Vision & Intent
The vision for this development is rooted in faith and a desire to serve our community through practical action. The project is guided by the following principles:
- Mission: “Activating Community Transformation” through practical service
- Biblical Foundation: Faith in action, community building, and sacrificial service
- Primary Goal: Provide affordable housing for Te Awamutu residents
4. Development Details
The proposed development is designed to meet diverse housing needs while fostering a strong sense of community. Key features include:
- Total Homes: 40 townhouses
- 12 one-bedroom
- 20 two-bedroom
- 8 three-bedroom
- Tenure Types:
- Private ownership (priority to first-home buyers)
- Affordable/subsidised rentals
- Rent-to-buy options
- Community Features:
- Landscaping with trees and shrubs
- Shared green space
- Community gardens
- Pedestrian-friendly design
5. Partnership with Habitat for Humanity
Our partnership with Habitat for Humanity is central to the success of Project 1310. Here’s how they’re involved:
- Habitat brings expertise in social housing
- Previous successful projects include Freeman Court and Palmer Street pensioner housing
- Habitat will manage:
- Social rental housing
- Progressive Home Ownership schemes
6. Impact on the Community
Project 1310 is designed to benefit the wider Te Awamutu community in meaningful ways:
- Positive Outcomes:
- Increased access to affordable housing
- Strengthened community connections
- Governance:
- Resident-led management committee for property upkeep