Thurston Abbeyfield House
The development of an Abbeyfield house in Whangarei was first explored during 1995. The local Society was formed in February 1996. Various fundraising and development ideas were explored in the suceeding years but it was not until Abbeyfield New Zealand proposed using funds supplied by residents to build a house that the Whangarei project took shape.

Development of the idea, based on the Retirement Village model common in New Zealand, took some time. To meet the regulatory and compliance requirements Abbeyfield New Zealand created a wholly owned subsidiary called the Abbeyfield Housing Company Ltd as the vehicle to own the house. Abbeyfield Whangarei manages the day to day operation, selects and hires staff and provides support to residents in the same way as all Abbeyfield houses.

Construction of the house was facilitated through an interest free advance from Abbeysupport Ltd, arranged by its Director Hugh Thurston who remains involved with the house as a Director of the Abbeyfield Housing Company Ltd.

Dr Thurston's considerable influence and input into the project was recognised when the house was opened as Thurston Abbeyfield House, Whangarei. The attached photo shows the Governor General of New Zealand Dame Silvia Cartwright officially opening the house on March 13th 2002, accompanied by Dr Thurston. Additional images of the house are showing in a sequence below.

Residents of Thurston Abbeyfield House purchase a licence to occupy their suites and use the common areas of the property and pay a weekly fee for the services provided. Information concerning the scheme may be obtained by contacting the Chairman of Abbeyfield Whangarei at the address below.

Intending residents and their families and advisors are urged to refer to the Disclosure Statement, Occupation Right Agreement and Code of Practice and obtain independent legal and financial advice prior to making any commitment to participate.

 

For enquiries on becoming a resident in Abbeyfield Thurston House, or to offer financial support or to work as a volunteer - please contact

Peter Goulden (Chairman)
phone (09) 435 4454 or cell 027 282 6056

Bardy Campbell (Secretary)- phone 09 4347471  avarillo@xtra.co.nz 

Gayle Anderson (Treasurer) - phone 09 4335799 gr.anderson@xtra.co.nz

The Housekeeper
Abbeyfield Thurston House
28 Mains Avenue
Whangarei
phone (09) 437 5695

Abbeyfield Thurston house currently has occupation licences available for purchase covering two studios. The affordable weekly charge  covers all food, heating, housekeeper, rates, house telephone etc. and residents have full access to laundry and communal living areas. To obtain further information, view the property or stay for a short period to trial the Abbeyfield lifestyle please contact the Chairman.