Western Bay of Plenty District Council will more than double its elder housing stocks in Katikati thanks to a government funding boost.  

The council will build 26 modern rental homes on its Heron Crescent site with a $2.4 million injection from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development’s Affordable Housing Fund.

This funding, coupled with the $4.6 million Council has set aside from its Better Off Funding, means Council can progress with its preferred option of providing a mix of one and two bedroom units that also cater for those with mobility issues - at no cost to rate payers.

Once finished, the 26 unit development will see 15 additional units, in addition to replacing the 11 existing 40-year-old units that have been removed from the site.

“We have listened to our community about their needs and sought to get funding from central government to get more housing built in the area, and look after our elderly,” says Council chief executive John Holyoake.

“This funding will see us build on our strategic priority of providing housing that is affordable, accessible, habitable with security of tenure, and appropriate to our life stages and differing needs.”

Katikati is a growing population of close to 5000 people, and there is a demand out there for purpose-built rental homes for our elderly population who often find it hard to rent warm, dry and affordable homes.

“Affordable housing for older people is a key area of concern in our District - need is increasing, and supply is very limited. At the moment Katikati’s housing stock of mostly three and four bedroom homes, doesn’t fit the needs of our older population who typically want to downsize,” says John.

“Providing affordable housing especially for older people often means they can stay in their local community, and continue to contribute to the strong social networks that makes Katikati so special.”

Aerial perspective. Image: WBOPDC.

What's happening now - on the ground

• The foundational site works have been completed including retaining walls and new fencing.
• The new public path between Heron Crescent and Diggelmann Park is open and underneath is the new stormwater mains.
• The site is “build ready” and allows for the 26 units, carparking and associated wastewater and stormwater connections.

What’s happening next

• The design and build project is currently open for tender via the Government Electronic Tender Service (GETS). Tenders close Monday, November 13, 2023.