Thriving at Te Mātāwai – Jane’s first year

Te Mātāwai in central Auckland operates under a single site supported housing model that combines a permanent home with 24/7 onsite support services to residents. It is the first of its kind to be developed and delivered by Kāinga Ora in Aotearoa and recently marked one year open in the community.

“I lived in the old original 1950’s 87-unit building. As the site was being redeveloped we were all supported to move to other Kāinga Ora homes. In 2018, I moved to another place across town but always knew I would be back as I really wanted to live in the new development Kāinga Ora was planning to build on the site.”

Jane in the computer room

“I was also keen to move back because I was involved in one of the tenant advisory groups. We had opportunities to provide ideas to Kāinga Ora about the sorts of facilities the new development needed to have. Some of the suggestions we made were an onsite communal kitchen and dining area where residents could eat together. We also provided input about outdoor areas. It’s just fantastic to see that Te Mātāwai has these facilities for tenants to enjoy.”

“My home at Te Mātāwai is on level 2. It’s brand new and so nice and warm. From my unit I also have a view over the outdoor areas which means a lot to me.”

“As Te Mātāwai is in a great location I get to enjoy everything the city has to offer. I often walk to the public library and a movie and visit friends that live locally in other Kāinga Ora homes. As I have an interest in architecture I love nothing more than walking around the CBD and seeing all the changes that are taking place.”

“The Hapori Kaitiaki - community guardians that welcome me and other tenants as soon as we walk through the front door are a super friendly team. Seeing a friendly face that knows you by name and can help if needed is heartwarming.”

“Looking ahead I want to do another computer course like the course I completed recently in the computer room here at Te Mātāwai as it’s helping me to learn new skills. I’ve really enjoyed my first year living here and always knew what was going to replace the old building was going to be awesome. Te Mātāwai has turned out to be everything I knew it would be and so much more,” Jane says.