A high-profile commercial landholding in central Whangārei is being brought to market following significant fire damage to its existing improvements, presenting a unique chance for buyers to acquire or redevelop a prime site in one of the region’s most tightly held commercial zones, Bayleys brokers say.

Bayleys Commercial in the North broker Nigel Ingham invites expressions of interest for the freehold property at 22 Okara Drive, closing at 4:00pm on Thursday, 10th July 2025 (unless sold prior).

The property comprises a 2,682sqm (more or less) corner site with more than 110m of high-exposure road frontage, directly opposite the busy Okara Shopping Centre.

A large fire in October 2024 significantly damaged the property, destroying the building formerly occupied by Northland Dry Cleaners and Smart Water and Irrigation.

The blaze, which broke out late at night, took firefighters nearly six hours to contain and required specialist aerial equipment from Auckland. While no injuries were reported, the fire left the site in ‘as-is’ condition, prompting the current sale offering.

Ingham says the site is zoned Commercial under the Whangārei District Plan and suitable for a wide range of future uses, including large-format retail, trade supply, showrooms, or mixed-use commercial development.

“The Expressions of Interest process is designed to provide flexibility for potential purchasers, as multiple sale options are available for the property. Buyers can acquire the asset in its current “as-is” condition, pursue a purchase post-demolition, or explore a potential joint-venture redevelopment.

“This provides a rare chance to reposition a significant footprint in one of Whangārei’s most prominent commercial corridors,” he says. “With very few comparable sites available, particularly in such a strategic location, the opportunity is likely to generate strong interest from a range of parties, including occupiers, developers and investors.

The site’s location at Okara Drive and Commerce Street is at the heart of Whangārei’s retail and service precinct. The Okara Shopping Centre, directly opposite, is home to a range of national tenants and remains a dominant retail drawcard in the region, supporting sustained consumer traffic and commercial activity.

“Positioned along a key arterial route surrounded by complementary businesses, the property offers excellent exposure, accessibility and long-term relevance,” Ingham says.

“Whether repositioned for single or multi-tenanted occupation, or redeveloped entirely, the site features the fundamentals to support a wide range of commercial uses.”

Ingham says the offering comes to market amid increasing competition for well-located development land, as investors and occupiers look to secure a foothold in growth regions.

“Tight vacancy levels in high-profile areas, rising construction costs, and a renewed focus on local infrastructure investment have all emphasised well-positioned, future-ready sites.”

“In the current environment, buyers prioritise flexibility and long-term potential. This property meets the criteria, offering several strategic pathways to unlock value in a high-performing location with strong underlying commercial demand.

“Whangārei’s expanding population and position as Northland’s commercial hub further reinforce this appeal.

“Whether you’re a developer seeking scale, a business looking for profile, or an investor ready to reposition, the property at Okara Drive presents a compelling platform for growth in a region with a positive long-term outlook.”