lizard news
11th March 2025
Katikati & Ōmokoroa
Caring about loCal Community matters from te Puna to Waihī beaCh
Affordable housing with a community emphasis By Matthew Farrell
n an effort to make home ownership accessible for first-time buyers and families who have long struggled with the rising property market, a not-for-profit charitable entity - the New Zealand Housing Foundation - has launched a new development in Ōmokoroa with a focus on affordability and community. The first stage of this development, located off Pip Way, is underway, with plans to offer 28 homes ready for residents by June 2025. Future stages off Tūī Glen will also bring opportunities for more families to enter the property market, with the potential introduction of a rent-to-own scheme. NZHF’s shared ownership program ensures homebuyers are not burdened with excessive mortgage debt. Residents are limited to spending no more than 30% of their gross income on repayments to maintain long-term financial sustainability. “Home ownership should be a dream that’s within reach for Kiwis,” says sales and community engagement manager Greg Freeman.
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The show home is situated at the end of Pip Way. PHOTO: Supplied.
“We understand the challenges families face when trying to get onto the property ladder, especially in the current market where million-dollar homes are the norm. Our goal is to provide an alternative that enables families to move
Greg Freeman in the show home. PHOTO: Matthew Farrell.
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from renters to proud homeowners.” The Foundation is equally committed to fostering connected communities. The development will include a Residents Association - an Incorporated Society led by the homeowners - to maintain common areas and facilitate community activities. The association will use levies to fund the upkeep of shared spaces, with fees set at around $150 per year. “The success of a neighbourhood depends on the people within it,” explains Greg. “We want residents to know their neighbours and feel a sense of belonging. We aim to create vibrant, dynamic communities where people support one another.” The Residents Association will not only oversee maintenance of the common areas but also encourage social engagement through events like community barbecues, kids’ parties, and working bees; all designed to bring residents together. The Housing Foundation will support the Residents Association for the first two years, to ensure the smooth operation and long-term success of the community. The Housing Foundation also prioritises accessibility. While the homes will
Ōmokoroa
be predominantly townhouses, the organisation is open to adapting homes for those with specific needs, such as wheelchair users. Looking ahead, the Foundation is planning future stages of the development, which will include additional homes and the possibility of introducing a rent-toown option. Although not available in the first stage, this program may be possible for stages 2-5. Under this model, renters will have the opportunity to purchase their homes after a set period, providing a pathway for individuals and families who may struggle to save for a deposit. “We are actively exploring the rent-toown concept for future stages,” says Greg. “We’ve seen how powerful this model can be in helping people with debt or financial constraints get into home ownership in Auckland.” Greg says the Housing Foundation works closely with banks to help residents secure mortgages, offering financial education and support throughout the process. With the aim of keeping mortgage repayments below 30% of income, the Foundation ensures that families can manage their finances and avoid the stress of overwhelming debt. “Our vision extends beyond just providing a roof over someone’s head,” he says. “We want to create neighbourhoods where people can live, grow, and thrive together.” Prospective homeowners interested in the development can register their interest through the NZ Housing Foundation website, where they will be guided through the application process. Household support manager Natalie Bright is available to meet applicants to discuss their needs, tour the Pip Way show home, and help determine which property is the right fit. With homes priced well below the market average and tailored to suit the needs of families, this development offers a promising solution for those looking to achieve the dream of home ownership. See www.nzhf.org for more information or to register interest.
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