Written by Urban Homes Coromandel on Jul 03, 2025

Building in the Coromandel? Here’s How We Help You Find a Rental While You Build

Jumping into a new home build is a big step. Add shifting towns, entering semi-retirement, and adjusting to the rhythm of beach life in Mercury Bay – and it can all feel like a lot to juggle at once.

That’s why our Urban Homes Thames Coromandel team does more than just build beautiful homes – we help make the whole journey easier, including working with other locals to find you somewhere to live while your new build takes shape.

Whether you’re relocating from Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga, or simply transitioning from an old bach to your dream coastal home, we’ve got local solutions that support your move every step of the way.

A couple enjoying the view from Marlin Waters Lifestyle Village in Whitianga — a peaceful option for over-50s looking to settle into coastal living.
A couple enjoying the view from Marlin Waters Lifestyle Village in Whitianga — a peaceful option for over-50s looking to settle into coastal living. Photo courtesy of Marlin Waters

Relocating to the Coromandel? You’re Not Alone

We’re seeing a growing number of people choosing to build in the Coromandel – not just for holidays, but as a full-time lifestyle move. For many, it’s part of a semi-retirement plan: swapping city stress for laid-back mornings, beach walks, and a slower pace of life.

But relocating and building at the same time comes with its challenges. If your bach is being demolished, your existing home has already sold, or you’re still commuting while your new build is underway – one big question remains:

Where are you going to live in the meantime?

Urban’s Local Solution: Renting While You Build

Thanks to our friends at Bayleys in Mercury Bay, our team at Urban Homes Thames Coromandel can help connect you with short-term rental properties in Whitianga and the surrounding area.

Renting while you build offers real benefits:

  • You stay close to your build site and can easily visit to check on progress
  • You begin settling into the community and lifestyle early
  • You avoid juggling long travel days or temporary accommodation stress

“We know how important having somewhere to live is,” says Tanya Blok-Jones, Urban Homes Thames Coromandel co-franchise owner. “We’re in the business of building homes – and sometimes that includes helping you find a temporary one too!”

Renting in Whitianga

One recent Urban Homes client building in the Whitianga Waterways took up an exclusive offer from the team at Whitianga Waterways to rent in Marlin Waters – an over-50s lifestyle community in Whitianga – while waiting for their build to be completed.

“Marlin Waters has been a great solution,” shares Tanya. “Right on the canal, it’s the perfect stepping stone while their new home is being built.”

While availability is limited, it’s just one of several rental solutions for clients who are building in the Coromandel.

Building With Urban Homes Thames Coromandel

Our local team in Whitianga works closely with clients throughout the Coromandel, including Wharekaho, Matarangi, Paunaui, Cooks Beach and Tairua. We understand the unique needs of people building in the region – from sloped sections and coastal conditions to council processes and local trades.

With the full backing of Urban Homes, our franchise offers:

  • Award-winning home designs to suit coastal living
  • Customisable floorplans for lifestyle and accessibility needs
  • Studio U, where clients can choose interior finishes, fixtures, and more

Even if you’re not local, our team will help you make the right decisions with confidence – and a clear plan for where you’ll live while the build takes place.

Let’s Talk: Rental Help and Build Guidance

Tanya and Dan at Urban Homes Thames Coromandel live and work in Whitianga. They know the people, the properties, and the practicalities of building in the Coromandel – and they’re ready to help.

Whether you’re ready to build, or just starting to explore your options, get in touch today. And if you’re needing a rental while your dream home comes to life? They know just the people to talk to.

 *Photo courtesy of Aireys Consultants Ltd – Marlin Waters Lifestyle Village