44 new homes and a community space for Leach Street

Kāinga Ora bought the new homes from developer, Soho Group, for use as social housing.

Graeme Broderick, Regional Director Taranaki/Whanganui/Manawatu, says the new homes will help meet the demand for social housing in New Plymouth, in line with the Public Housing Plan.

“We know the positive impact these homes will have on the people and smaller families matched to them and we’re excited to hand over the keys. The central location means the homes are close to everything our customers need in their day-to-day lives, such as shops, schools and recreational facilities.

“The community will play a big part in helping people settle into these new homes. We hope that local residents welcome our customers in the same way they would welcome any other person or family moving into a neighbourhood.’’

Mr Broderick says he is delighted the community space in the complex can be used by those living in the homes, as well as the wider community. The community space will be managed by the Taranaki YMCA.

“To enable vibrant community spaces, we must partner with other organisations. We will be engaging with our customers and community on the wellbeing and social outcomes they want to see unlocked in this new community space,” says Mr Broderick.

The Taranaki YMCA CEO Joanne Dusterhoft adds: “The shared community space will be used for various activities and programs to foster community engagement between Kāinga Ora customers and the inner-city community. Through the Taranaki YMCA's network of other community organisations services, Kāinga Ora customers will also have access to a wide range of other resources to support their personal and professional development.”

“We look forward to building a stronger, more resilient community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive through this partnership.”

Ben Noone, Head of Project Delivery at Soho Group, says Soho is very proud of the Leach Street development, from site selection and the proximity to the heart of the city to the high-quality design of the building and landscaping features.

“Soho, along with local tradespeople, has delivered well-positioned, functional, warm, dry and comfortable homes for local whānau. Working alongside our contractors and supporting the local community and economy throughout the development was great. There were up to 60 people on-site at any given point, made up of around 30 local businesses.”

44 new homes at Leach Street in New Plymouth are now ready for people and small families to start moving in.