Leasing Council-owned buildings

We have lease agreements with community organisations, clubs, and other groups that occupy Council-owned buildings throughout the Kāpiti Coast District.

These agreements help ensure community buildings remain active, well managed, and available for activities that benefit residents.

Lease arrangements are managed by our Property team. We assess each proposal to ensure the building is used appropriately and supports community outcomes.

Who can lease a Council-owned building

Community organisations may be considered for a lease where their activities:

  • provide a benefit to the community
  • support arts, culture, recreation, education, wellbeing, or community development
  • are compatible with the surrounding area and activities
  • align with the purpose of the building and the land it occupies.

For buildings located on recreation reserves, proposed activities must also comply with the requirements of the Reserves Act 1977 and Conservation Act 1987.

Why we lease community buildings

Leasing community buildings helps us:

  • support community activities and services
  • maintain important community facilities
  • increase the use of public assets
  • support recreation, culture, learning, and wellbeing opportunities
  • contribute to vibrant neighbourhoods and town centres across the Kāpiti Coast.

Community buildings that may be leased

We have lease arrangements for a range of community facilities across the district, including buildings in:

  •  Ōtaki
  • Waikanae
  • Paraparaumu
  • Raumati
  • Paekākāriki.

Examples of leased facilities include:

  • Mahara Gallery
  • Ōtaki Civic Theatre
  • recreation buildings in Matthews Park
  • recreation buildings in Weka Park
  • recreation buildings in Kena Kena Park.

The availability of buildings for lease varies over time and depends on our operational requirements and the suitability of individual buildings.

How we decide whether to lease a building

When considering a lease, we assess:

  • the purpose and condition of the building
  • the proposed community benefit
  • alignment with our strategies and objectives
  • compatibility with surrounding activities
  • the long-term sustainability of the proposed use
  • any legal or statutory requirements affecting the land.

Buildings located on recreation reserves

Additional legal requirements apply when a building is located on recreation reserve land.

To be considered for a lease on recreation reserve land, the proposed use must:

  • provide opportunities for public enjoyment
  • support outdoor sport, recreation, games, or related activities
  • be consistent with the purpose of the reserve
  • ensure that any trade, business, or occupation contributes to the public's use and enjoyment of the reserve.

Public notification may also be required before a lease can be granted.

Process for leasing a Council-owned building

Step 1: Expression of interest

When a suitable Council-owned building becomes available for lease, we may invite expressions of interest from potential tenants.

Step 2: Assessment

Applications are assessed by a panel of Council staff representing relevant areas of expertise.

Applications are evaluated against established criteria, including community benefit, suitability of the proposed activity, alignment with the purpose of the land, and long-term viability.

Step 3: Recommendation and decision

Assessment recommendations are provided to Council's senior leadership for consideration and decision.

Step 4: Public notification (where required)

If a proposed lease requires public notification, we will publicly notify the proposal on our website and through other required notification channels for at least one month.

Step 5: Consideration of objections

Any objections received during the notification period will be considered by Council.

We may hear submitters before making a final decision on whether to proceed with the lease.

Step 6: Lease agreement

If approved, Council and the successful applicant will enter into a formal lease agreement that sets out the rights and responsibilities of both parties.

Contact us

If your organisation is interested in leasing a Council-owned community building, contact us to discuss available opportunities and the suitability of your proposed activity.