Consortium Construction is completing the finishing touches on the modern one-bedroom units with the first ever tenants set to move into their new homes in early May.

Council’s Housing Portfolio Holder, Cr Wendy Doody says the development is a win for the community in all aspects; representing a significant investment in supporting the district's ageing population but also utilising red-zoned land that would otherwise be uneconomic to remediate.

“We know our community is getting older and that stable housing options for elderly people on low incomes are very limited, so these homes are sorely needed,” says Cr Doody.

Council is committed to playing a bigger role in helping to address housing constraints across the district, including as a provider of affordable rentals.

“It’s not just about housing though; it’s about creating a supportive living environment that enables our tenants to maintain their independence and be part of a close-knit community.”

Project Manager Kim Booker says the homes have been designed to blend harmoniously with surrounding properties, ensuring the development enhances the local area.

“This location presented unique challenges as red-zoned land following earthquake damage; however, we’ve used lightweight construction suited to the land conditions, making it possible to build these 52sqm homes,” says Kim.

Each home features a large deck at the front and rear to enable good indoor / outdoor flow with accessibility features including shared ramps to ensure residents can navigate their homes safely and independently.

A shared energy system is part of the development ensuring each block is provided hot water and heating to a minimum temperature and is included as part of the rent.

“The development takes the form of a village-style complex arranged in four blocks,” says Kim. “Our goal is to provide safe, comfortable and supportive housing for elderly people, enhancing their quality of life while respecting the character of the neighbourhood.”

The project has been funded from multiple sources including Tūāpapa Kura Kāinga | Ministry of Housing and Urban Development and Rata Foundation with additional costs being met from the Council's elderly housing reserve, generated through the sale of some community houses and debt serviced by rental income.

Property Manager Rob Hawthorne says the rental structure ensures affordability with rent set at around 80 percent of market value.

“This rent ensures the service will cover the long-term cost of developing, owning and operating the service over its lifetime,” says Rob.

Several existing units in Oxford and Rangiora are currently being refurbished and are expected to be complete in March and May respectively. This is part of a program of mid-life refurbishments aimed at making our 1960’s and 1970’s housing units fit for purpose for another 40 plus years.

“We’re also excited to be adding six additional new units in Rangiora, which are scheduled for completion later this year.”

Waimakariri District Council’s elderly housing portfolio currently boasts 112 below market units for elderly residents aged 65 years and older with limited means who do not own property.

Applications are now open to couples who meet the eligibility criteria. More information on Council’s elderly housing portfolio, eligibility criteria and how to apply can be found on Council’s website: https://www.waimakariri.govt.nz/services/council-housing