“The final seven of 14 new homes are now complete in Manuka Street, Elgin. Building started in May last year after four old homes were removed to make better use of the large sections they were on. Whānau started moving into the first seven homes in May.
“Some of the 12 new homes will be matched to whānau most in need on the Ministry of Social Development’s housing waiting list.
“As of March 2023, 582 applicants were on the list in Tairāwhiti. This translates to our whānau sleeping in cars, garages and overcrowded homes.”
Morehu (Beau) Rangiwai entered his new, two-bedroom home for the first time last week, after being transferred into one of the two fully accessible homes in the Manuka Street development.
The unit he had been living in became unsuitable due to increasing health issues. There were steps at the front and back and the shower was situated over the bathtub. This meant Beau had to rely on extra services, and other people’s help, to negotiate both the access and his shower.
“Most of his working life Beau worked on large coastal stations, mainly with sheep and cattle. In 2017 Beau was forced to move into town from his home town of Waipiro Bay. Since then, mobility and retaining independence have been significant challenges for him. However, his perseverance, persistent nature and whānau support, have helped him to pull through,” Ms Whitewood said.
Fortunately for Beau, his neighbour for the past seven years saw to it that she was always there to help. “I am ever so indebted to her for her kindness and aroha, also, to whānau, friends and health professionals,” Beau said.
“I am pleased to be living in Elgin because of its location, being close to the hospital, not too far from the airport and just a walking distance to the Olympic Pools and Waikanae Beach.
“The new home has a battery charging station and access for a mobility scooter. Shopping will be easier, and the big difference is, I will not need to rely on anyone else to get my groceries.”
