Rotorua Lakes Council is partnering with community housing provider, Ka Puta Ka Ora Emerge Aotearoa, to improve the provision of pensioner housing in Rotorua city.
Group Manager – Infrastructure and Assets, Stavros Michael says the partnership is focused on making sure tenants continue to have safe, comfortable housing, with access to support services.
“Following feedback from the community through the Long-term Plan, Council decided to partner with Emerge Aotearoa. They have a lot of experience in creating safe, comfortable homes for older people,” said Mr Michael.
“We see this change as a really positive step that will make life better for our tenants now and continue to bring benefits into the future for both them and our community.”
Mr Michael says the council’s property services agreement with Ka Puta Ka Ora Emerge Aotearoa will take effect on 1 October 1. Emerge Aotearoa will take care of day-to-day management tasks, including tenant sign-ups, rent collection on the council’s behalf, inspections and maintenance management.
“They will also foster tenant relationships and connect individuals to the necessary services. Nothing about tenants’ day-to-day living will change, though they will need to sign a tenancy agreement with Emerge Aotearoa,” he said.
“Council and Emerge Aotearoa will be here to guide tenants through every step and make the process as easy as possible.
“With over 20 years of experience in social and affordable housing across New Zealand and as one of the Government’s trusted housing partners, Emerge Aotearoa is committed to supporting tenants for the long term.”
Mr Michael says Council will be moving rents to market rates from 1 February next year.
“For many tenants, this change will mean they can receive government assistance to help cover the increase.”
“Some tenants, such as those in paid work or with significant assets, may not be eligible for the full level of support. Emerge Aotearoa will work closely with each tenant to make sure they have access to any benefits they’re entitled to.
“The Council has also committed to providing a ‘top-up’ for a period of two years for tenants who are solely dependent on superannuation to make sure they will be no worse off financially. The top-up will likely be a contribution to power or other utility bills.”
Under the new arrangement, Mr Michael says there may be an opportunity to expand the portfolio to meet rising demand and ensure that units meet modern standards. Options for comprehensive redevelopment will be explored and any proposals will be presented to the Council for consideration next year.
“All current tenants will have a place to live as part of any redevelopment. No one will be left without housing. Tenants will be kept fully informed throughout the process. If there are opportunities for improvements or upgrades in the future we’ll make sure they are part of the conversation,” he said.
Council says there will be no change to the waiting list for those waiting for a unit, but that function will also be taken over by Emerge Aotearoa.
