A South Auckland Address Soon To Get A Punjabi Name

A South Auckland subdivision development on Hillcrest Road will soon bear a name that resonates deeply with Punjabi pride and sentiment. The subdivision street address, 59 Hillcrest Road – located on Hillcrest Road, Papatoetoe – will be named as ‘Chardi Kalan Way’.

However, the new name, which is still in progress, has been approved by the Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board and will only be officially allocated once the Deposited Plan is finalised by Auckland Council.

“Naming the street ‘Chardi Kala Way’ is a proud moment,” said Gurjap Singh, one of the developers who submitted the application.

“It reflects our roots and the spirit of optimism we grew up with here in New Zealand as part of the Indian community,” Singh added.

‘Chardi Kalan Way’ represents a spirit one that every Punjabi recognises.

For the Punjabi community in New Zealand, this is another proud milestone that celebrates cultural identity in a meaningful, visible way.

The renaming was officially approved by the Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board on July 29, 2025, following a proposal by the property owner submitted through Auckland Council’s subdivision team.

According to Rhonwen Heath, Head of Rates Valuations & Data Management at Auckland Council,

“The council received road name approval on 4 August 2025, and a letter was created and sent on 4 August to advise of the allocation of 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, & 11 Chardi Kala Way (Private road).”

However, Heath clarified,

“These will not be officially allocated until the Deposited Plan has been finalised by the council."

"The subdivision of 59 Hillcrest Road has led to the creation of new addresses (1, 3, 5, 7, 9, & 11 Chardi Kala Way) which replace the original address," Heath added.

Gurjap Singh submitted the proposal alongside project manager Sukhjap Singh, who is overseeing construction. The build is led by licensed builder Jaskirat Singh, with engineering by Gurjap Singh (Chartered Engineer), onsite civil supervision by Paramjot Singh, materials supplied by Arjun Bhatti of Marten Baker Timbers, and civil design support from Jaskirat Singh.

Together, this close-knit team, who are all high school friends turned professionals in the construction industry, is working to deliver a high-quality residential development.

The name ‘Chardi Kalan Way’ also serves as a tribute to the cultural and ancestral heritage of the developers, while honouring the enduring values of the Sikh community in Auckland.

During the board meeting, applicants shared the significance behind the name,

“...reflects the spirit of eternal optimism and resilience.”

The concept of Chardi Kala, they noted, beautifully aligns with Māori values such as mana, kia kaha, and whakamanawa, which all highlight strength of spirit, emotional courage, and uplifting the community in times of adversity. 

The subdivision, which is currently under construction, will feature six new homes, all developed by the same team.

Gurjap added that they had submitted three name options,

“Chardi Kala Way (preferred), Yodha Place (alternative), and Akal Way (alternative).”

“Our preferred name was chosen,” he confirmed.

The approval process took about two months, and the project is currently in the framing stage.

“We have ordered the name boards to be put up once the construction is complete.”

“We’re excited for this new chapter in Auckland,” he added.