Council Receives More Housing New Zealand Corporation Funding for Further Upgrades
In 2006-2007 Franklin District Council successfully completed a $900,000 refurbishment of 30 pensioner housing flats in Albert Place, Pukekohe, thanks to Housing New Zealand Corporation (HNZC) funding. The Council has now received $600,000 from HNZC towards modernising and refurbishing a further 20 units.
The 20 units are across three sites - at Norfolk Rise (Waiuku), Lawrie Ave (Pukekohe) and Henderson Ave (Tuakau). Work is expected to start in April on the first group of units with work taking approximately six weeks at each location.
“Making the units more comfortable and modern will provide safer, more accessible living for those who live in the units now and in the future. The financial assistance Housing New Zealand Corporation is providing will help us do that,” says Franklin District Council Mayor, Mark Ball.
In order to achieve the best result Council works closely with a professional Architect and HNZC.
The residents experience with the Albert Place upgrade was very positive and residents have spoken glowingly about the results.
“This is now the nicest place I’ve lived,” said one resident.
“The bathroom is magic,” added another resident, commenting on how much better suited the new fittings and walk-in showers are for the elderly residents.
In general, most units, along with a good lick of paint on the walls and ceiling, will receive:
Ceiling insulation
New carpet
All new aluminium windows
New vinyl in the kitchen
New kitchen fittings and a better kitchen layout
Walk-in shower conversions for units that currently have baths. Also new special non-slip vinyl in these bathrooms and new bathroom layout and fittings including extractor fans and heat lamps.
New larger deck area
Security lighting
The funding is in the form of a suspensory, interest-free loan from HNZC.