The first residents have now moved in to the new Abbeyfield house in Manukau, Auckland. The purpose-built house, called Te Rau Aroha, caters for12 kaumātua or older people. Residents and whānau took part in the opening celebration recently, along with local community leaders, politicians, and representatives from funders, partners and the housing sector. Guest speakers included the Minister of Housing, Chris Bishop, and Minister for Seniors, Casey Costello.
Abbeyfield New Zealand Executive Officer, Ruth Seabright, says Te Rau Aroha provides a much-needed housing option for over-65s in the Manukau community.
She paid tribute to Abbeyfield Manukau committee members for their efforts in getting the house up and running, as well as the many others involved in the project over the past 8 years. “We’re also very grateful for financial support received from the Government and the Stevenson Trust – without this, the house could not have been built.”

Photo: Government ministers, local politicians and Abbeyfield representatives at the opening celebration. Photo supplied by Chris Bishop’s office.