West Auckland Set for $300m Twin-Tower Project to House Film Industry Workforce
Auckland, New Zealand – November 13, 2025 – West Auckland’s residential landscape is poised for a significant transformation with the announcement of a massive $300 million build-to-rent scheme planned for Henderson. The ambitious project, spearheaded by residential developer John Love, aims to address the urgent housing needs generated by the burgeoning film industry in the area.
Mr. Love, known for successfully executing New Zealand’s largest office-to-apartment conversion, The CAB (the former Auckland Council headquarters), today unveiled plans for a 12-level, twin-tower apartment complex strategically located right next to a major West Auckland film studio.
The primary driver for the scale of this development is the projected workforce for the nearby studio complex. The scheme is designed to accommodate the estimated 1,000 workers—a mix of high-skilled screen professionals, crew, and support staff—expected to be based at the film production facilities.
A Build-to-Rent Model for a Mobile Workforce
The twin-tower development marks a major commitment to the “build-to-rent” model, which is gaining traction in New Zealand as a solution to housing affordability and supply issues, particularly for workforces requiring flexible, high-quality tenure. For the film industry, which relies on a highly mobile and contract-based workforce, a dedicated rental scheme provides stability, convenience, and modern amenities tailored to their demanding schedules.
John Love’s involvement brings significant experience in complex urban regeneration projects. His previous work on The CAB demonstrates his capability in delivering large-scale residential projects that contribute to the revitalization of urban centres. This new Henderson project is expected to follow a similar philosophy, providing a high-quality living environment that integrates seamlessly with the surrounding commercial and community fabric of West Auckland.
Strategic Location to Bolster Henderson’s Economy
The choice of land, located beside the established film studios, is a deliberate move to create a self-contained, supportive ecosystem for the screen sector. By locating high-density residential housing directly adjacent to the employment hub, the project aims to minimize commuting times, reduce pressure on local infrastructure, and foster a vibrant, creative community within Henderson.
The sheer scale of the investment—$300 million—is expected to inject substantial capital into the local construction industry and generate hundreds of construction and permanent operational jobs in the coming years. Furthermore, the 1,000 new residents will provide a massive boost to local businesses, including cafes, restaurants, and retail services in the Henderson town centre.
The development is a direct response to the growth of Auckland’s screen production sector, which has been significantly boosted by recent government initiatives and the expansion of facilities at West Auckland studios like Studio West and Auckland Film Studios. These facilities have successfully attracted major international productions, creating thousands of high-value jobs and driving demand for specialized accommodation.
While the full details, including the exact number of apartments and the final design, are yet to be revealed, the announcement confirms a major step forward in creating a sustainable, long-term residential solution for one of Auckland’s most economically vital and rapidly growing sectors. The move is set to redefine the skyline of West Auckland and solidify Henderson’s position as the heart of New Zealand’s screen production industry.
Lions Roar News will continue to monitor the progress of this landmark development and provide updates on planning applications and construction timelines.
