Fresh start for over 850 old state homes

Over the 12 months ending in June 2024, Kāinga Ora and its partners renovated 862 state houses, adding at least another 50 years onto the life of the home.

Patrick Dougherty, General Manager Construction and Innovation, says renovating older homes is an essential way Kāinga Ora ensures its housing stock of over 75,000 homes stay fit for purpose.

“Over two thirds of the homes we renovated in the last year were built prior to 1970 with the oldest home being built as far back as 1908.” he says.

“While we regularly maintain all our homes, some of our older ones are in need of a total overhaul. In this case, we assess the home alongside the social housing needs of the area and decide whether to remove the home and redevelop the land or complete an extensive renovation.

“Once renovated, the homes are almost as good as new. They are fully insulated, all the windows are double-glazed, and new heating is installed. Depending on the home, the renovations might also include removing walls to create more open plan living spaces, improving access for customers with mobility needs, and upgrading the kitchen and bathroom.”

From Kaitaia to Invercargill, over 50 local districts saw state homes renovated by local construction teams in the last financial year.

“The renovation work also creates employment opportunities within these local communities,” says Mr Dougherty.

“We have 27 construction companies working with us to complete the renovations. They will usually have their own carpentry teams and employ local subcontractors such as electricians, painters and carpet installers.

“Renovating a home takes three to four months on average, so we move tenants to a temporary home, usually another state house in their neighbourhood, while it is completed. In the last year we have seen over 2,100 people return to a home that’s like a new build. It’s an improvement that can be life-changing for the families.”