12 Sep 2024
As New Zealand navigates the aftermath of a challenging economic period marked by high living costs and inflation, Home in Place is stepping forward to provide essential support through the development of affordable, warm homes for those in need.
In light of recent government changes tightening access to emergency housing - which have raised concerns about increasing homelessness - Home in Place is proactively offering sustainable housing solutions for vulnerable communities.
Home in Place, a leading not-for-profit social housing provider, is on track to deliver 28 affordable homes at Bennetts Road, Rotorua, as part of a major housing development that will significantly alleviate the region's housing crisis. This mixed tenure project includes units for both Home in Place affordable rental households and KiwiBuild first-home buyers, are expected to be progressively completed and handed over between October and December 2025.
Funded partly through an $11.2 million grant from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development's Affordable Housing Fund, this development aims to support moderate-income earners in essential service roles such as healthcare and education. With rents set at 80% of the market rate, the project show Home in Place's commitment to offering secure, quality housing solutions for those who need it most.
The successful progression of this project is the result of strong collaboration between Home in Place, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, and developer Watchman Capital. This partnership model shows how government and non-profit organisations can work together to deliver best practice solutions to pressing social issues.
Bernadette Pinnell, interim Chief Executive Officer of Home in Place, commented, "Our mission at Home in Place is to ensure every Kiwi has access to safe, affordable, and comfortable housing. We're excited to share that construction at Bennetts Road is well underway, with civil works advancing and piling already in progress. This development will provide Homestar-rated homes that are not only affordable but also sustainable."
Rotorua has been grappling with a severe housing shortage, with the rental market particularly strained. At the time of the project's proposal, only six rental properties were available in the entire city, highlighting the urgent need for affordable housing options.
The situation has been exacerbated by recent tightening of government criteria for accessing emergency housing, leading to increased instances of homelessness and rough sleeping, especially among vulnerable populations. Home in Place's Bennetts Road development directly responds to these challenges by providing long-term, affordable rentals that offer stability and security.
"These new homes will not only provide immediate relief to families struggling to find affordable accommodation but will also contribute to the long-term social and economic wellbeing of the Rotorua community," added Pinnell. "We believe that affordable housing is a fundamental right and a foundation for building strong, resilient communities."
The Western Bay of Plenty is one of New Zealand's fastest-growing regions, with projections indicating continued expansion over the next 30 years. This growth brings diverse social and economic benefits but also presents challenges in meeting the housing and infrastructure needs of local communities.
Home in Place is also exploring opportunities for future developments across New Zealand, aiming to replicate the success of the Bennetts Road project and continue making positive impacts in communities facing housing challenges.
Other projects in the pipeline include a 38-unit affordable housing development in the Nelson/Tasman region, which will mark Home in Place's first South Island project in partnership with Soho Group. This development will offer a mix of 14 one-bedroom and 24 two-bedroom units near the town centre. The project has been thoughtfully designed to respect the historical significance of the adjacent church.
Another development under construction is 16-unit apartment project in Palmerston North CBD due for completion in December 2024. This affordable housing is also in partnership with Soho Group will further add to the organisation’s strong regional presence and bring much needed affordable housing supply to the Manawatu.
As the housing crisis continues to impact the nation, Home in Place remains persistent in its mission to expand its presence and develop relationships that make a difference in the lives of those facing housing insecurity. The collaboration with iwi and the strategic investment in Māori-owned land highlights Home in Place’s commitment to creating inclusive and sustainable housing for all New Zealanders.
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