Rossburn, located on 24-hectares of the Spark family farm near Rangiora in North Canterbury, will have 270 new homes, a community hub and a café precinct when complete.
Another 30 hectares has been rezoned for future residential development on the south side of Boys Road.
Originally established by the Ross family in 1870, the Rossburn land has remained in multi-generational family ownership ever since. The Spark family has farmed here since 1942.
Geoff Spark, who is overseeing the new development, says Rossburn will have an extraordinary combination of natural beauty, community spirit and urban connectivity.
“We have been working on this project for many years, and to see it come to fruition is so exciting. We are creating something special, designed with a long-term vision.
“Rossburn is a rare opportunity for people to be part of a carefully planned community set thoughtfully in this unique part of the world. These premium-positioned sites will be in high-demand when they come to market.
“This is a chance for people to establish a home immersed in nature, and to be part of a real and vibrant community. We want them to feel a sense of the history of this place, our long and careful guardianship of the land, and a deep connection to the natural beauty surrounding it,” Mr Spark says.
Rossburn is uniquely positioned encircling the Northbrook Wetlands, an ecologically significant reserve and home to a diverse range of native bird species. The reserve lake has the beautiful Northbrook Stream flowing through it and a walkway network for the public to explore. The development features uninterrupted views of Mt Grey/Maukatere alongside a network of walking and cycling trails and landscaped open spaces.
“Rangiora township is just a few minutes’ walk away. It’s a really progressive town with a lovely mix of heritage and modern amenity,” he says.
The first two stages of 38 titles include 13 premium sites set along the reserve with direct waterfront access to the Northbrook Stream/Ō-Tūmatapura. Carefully designed view shafts ensure the built environment merges harmoniously with the surrounding reserve and wetlands.
The proposed Rangiora Eastern Link (REL) would run directly from Rossburn’s Spark Lane to Lineside Road. Incorporating a cycleway and walkway, the REL would provide shorter, more direct connection to Christchurch and significantly reduce local congestion.
“Our family has been farming the land for over 80 years, and in recent years we have seen the critical need for this key roading infrastructure as Rangiora has grown,” Mr Spark says.
The Waimakariri District Council Draft Annual Plan 2026/27 says the REL project is vital for Rangiora and wider Waimakariri, and it will transform congestion in Southbrook by providing an alternative route for Rangiora, unlock development opportunities, and boost local jobs and housing.
Rossburn features community-led design including a planned hub on the site of the historic dairy which would host a weekend farmers’ market showcasing the region’s outstanding fresh produce and local artisans. A café precinct near Northbrook Reserve with uninterrupted view of Mt Grey will add to the lively atmosphere. A pre-school is also proposed, adjacent to the café.
“With major Christchurch facilities including the international airport, the new OneNZ Stadium and Parakiore Recreation and Sport Centre a short drive away, Rossburn residents will be able to enjoy the best of both worlds,” Mr Spark says.
Key Milestones
- Earthworks commence: Winter 2026
- Section sales go live: July /August 2026
- Civil works: Spring/Summer 2026–27
- Titles issued: Winter 2027 (proposed)
- Rangiora Eastern Link construction start (proposed): Spring 2027