Tenants make fresh start in new five-storey complex

New apartment resident Pogisa and her husband Manaia had been staying with nine family members in a crowded three-bedroom home before they moved into their new warm, dry home.

She describes her new apartment “as beautiful, comfortable and quiet”, and expects her husband’s asthma symptoms to improve dramatically, thanks to the healthier environment.

The Cracroft Street complex comprises 28 one-bedroom homes, and replaced two older state houses built in 1947. Serviced by a lift, the five-storey complex makes the most of its 1,632 sqm site and has helped revitalise the area.

Anita was among the first residents to move into the complex, and says she feels happier and safer in her new home, after spending the previous two years in a boarding house.

A kitchen unit at the new five-storey Cracroft Street complex

“It’s very nice – the kitchen, the bathroom, everything. I don’t even need to use the heater.”

Anita and other new residents were officially welcomed to the complex by Manukau East MP Jenny Salesa, plus a number of Kāinga Ora tenancy management and community engagement staff.

Ms Salesa says “this is a tremendous development for Ōtāhuhu.”

“Having a place like this, that is so warm, dry and healthy, means so much for the residents. I’ve heard nothing but positive feedback.

“Kāinga Ora does a wonderful job of housing so many of our people.”

Built by Scarbro and designed by Designgroup Stapleton Elliot, the 28 homes cater to need for more one-bedroom homes in the Ōtāhuhu area. The complex is a unique addition to the suburb, with no other five-storey apartments in the immediate surroundings.

The development is also in close proximity to schools, supermarkets, shopping centres and employment opportunities, and is within walking distance of public transport options including the Onehunga train station.