The New Zealand Defence Force is moving ahead with a $490 million expansion and upgrade of housing at its military training base in Waiouru.

The first $75m stage of the project will 50 new homes for military families on newly developed land in partnership with local iwi Ngāti Rangi.

The Defence Force says it needs 211 homes to support military and civilian personnel at Waiouru Military Camp.

It plans to modernise a further 161 homes in a second stage.

The poor state of Defence Force housing has made headlines in recent years, with homes described as cold and damp.

NZDF General Manager of Estate Strategy Phil Gurnsey, says the Waiouru camp needs warm, dry, modern housing to attract and keep personnel in Waiouru and look after their wellbeing.

"Over the next 25 years we plan to spend around $490m on our Waiouru housing estate including new builds, upgrades, maintenance and utilities costs in support of NZDF operations."

Phil says the housing programme will also provide the flexibility to post regular force members and their whānau to Waiouru at short notice.

Modern housing is needed to attract and keep personnel in Waiouru, the NZDF says. Photo: New Zealand Defence Force.

Waiouru has been base for an army training area since World War II. According to Defence Force information, the military camp hosts about 500 civilian and military staff.

All Army soldiers complete 16 weeks of initial basic training in Waiouru.

The training area includes weapons ranges, military manoeuvre and live fire training areas, an urban training facility and a helicopter landing area.

The facilities support all three Defence Force Services as well as other Government agencies and international partners.

Ruapehu Mayor Weston Kirton and Ruapehu District Council chief executive Clive Manley have met with senior Defence Force personnel to discuss supporting the development plan.

"By taking a proactive approach we can help ensure that any large-scale development proceeds smoothly, complies with legislative requirements, and are completed on time and within budget," says Clive.

He says the council's relationship with the Defence Force reflects a long history of cooperation and mutual assistance.

Phil says the cooperation between the NZDF and the council will ensure Waiouru remains a thriving and supportive environment for both military personnel and local residents.

LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.