A new elder rental housing development has officially opened in Hastings, marking another important milestone in the district’s housing journey.
Located at Pam O’Keefe Avenue in Flaxmere, Te Pā Harakeke is Hastings District Council’s newest elder housing development and has been built in partnership with Te Tūāpapa Kura Kāinga – Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, through the Affordable Housing Fund.
The 39-unit development’s opening was celebrated by iwi, community partners, construction partners, Central Government funders, residents and local leaders, recognising the collective effort behind the project.
Mayor, Wendy Schollum said Te Pā Harakeke reflected the importance of creating communities where people could feel connected, supported and proud of where they lived.
“Our older residents who are renting deserve homes that are warm, safe and close to the people and places that matter to them,” she said.
“Te Pā Harakeke is about creating a real sense of belonging and ensuring older residents can continue to live independently while staying connected to their whānau and community.”
The wider transformation underway in Flaxmere would help make Te Pā Harakeke an even better place for residents to call home, the Mayor said.
“Flaxmere is continuing to grow and evolve, and it is exciting to see developments like this happening alongside other major investments in the area.”
“With the new supermarket, other new housing being built by development partners, the award-winning community park spaces and the continued revitalisation of the town centre, we are seeing Flaxmere become an even more vibrant and connected community.
“These improvements are making a real difference to everyday life for local people — creating places where residents can easily access services, spend time with friends and whānau, and enjoy high-quality community spaces close to home,” she said.
The homes have been designed to support independence, accessibility and community connection, providing quality long-term rental options.
Applications are still open for places in the one and two-bedroom unit development. People can check the eligibility requirements and apply at https://www.hastingsdc.govt.nz/services/senior-housing/elder-housing/.
