Progressive new Council housing for Graham St

Some of Hamilton’s older and less able residents are now enjoying a better quality of life thanks to major refurbishments of Hamilton City Council’s Graham Street housing complex. The housing upgrade is a joint project between the Council and Housing New Zealand, which will officially be opened onsite by Hamilton Mayor Bob Simcock at 10.30am on September 7.

Mr Simcock says that the $1 million Graham Street upgrade is part of Council’s 2006-16 Long Term Plan to upgrade Council’s housing complexes.


“It is a progressive move towards providing safe, well built and functional housing to help meet the current and future needs of the less able and of our increasing older population. We are thrilled with the results which are the product of an excellent working relationship with Housing New Zealand and architects de Lisle Jenkins.”

Prior to the refurbishment, the Graham Street complex consisted of single roomed bedsits with adjoining bathrooms and communal laundry facilities. 16 bedsits were gutted and renovated to create a new and better style of housing for tenants. During the renovations affected residents were temporarily relocated to other Council owned complexes at the Council’s expense. Once finished residents were able to elect to return to their refurbished units or remain where they were.

Residents returning to the complex, or moving there anew can now enjoy the benefit of fully self contained and newly insulated housing. Each unit now contains separate bedroom, a combined bathroom and laundry space and an open plan kitchen and living area. Level entry showers in bathrooms enable residents with mobility issues safer use of bathroom facilities. Terracing and exterior landscaping have also enhanced residents’ outdoor living experience.

The project is part of Council’s long-term commitment to providing safe, quality accommodation for eligible Hamiltonians. Refurbishments of other older units throughout the city are planned. Council housing is available primarily for the older person with a proportion of units available for less able people. For more information and to find out eligibility criteria, people can contact Hamilton City Council Services by phoning 07 838 6491 or 07838 6610.