A new housing development in the Tasman District, is being heralded as a game-changer

The 15-million dollar, 20-house development at Te Awhina Marae, in Motueka, opened with a dawn blessing on Thursday morning.

It's the largest ever development of its kind, in the upper South Island, and has been years in the planning -- aiming to provide social, cultural and economic benefits, through more communal living.

Local MP Maureen Pugh, says it's an important addition to Motueka, and the wider community.

She says it shows the value of devolving activities into the community, where it can be delivered faster and cheaper.