Housing NZ complex gets thumbs-up

Housing Minister Nick Smith (left) and Housing NZ head Glen Sowry inspect the apartments. Photo / Richard Robinson

A Housing New Zealand apartment complex has opened in Auckland and already received praise from its mostly elderly residents.

The block in Henshaw Ave, Three Kings - made up of 22 two-bedroom apartments - is part of a $2.9 billion three-year promise by Housing NZ to provide quality homes that are better suited to tenants.

The two-storey complex replaces four state houses that had been in the area for several years.

Housing Minister Nick Smith, who opened the development yesterday, said the new apartments would provide a more modern home for families.

"These apartments will provide a warm, dry and safe home for elderly and disabled tenants in close proximity to key facilities and amenities such as the supermarket, the local library and public transport," he said.

"Housing New Zealand's aim is to provide quality housing for those in the greatest need and which better suit tenants' needs."

For a number of them, having the supermarket so close to home was a big plus. Others acknowledged that simply having a brand new home was particularly pleasing.

Robert Lloyd, who has lived in Grey Lynn for about 20 years, said he was happy to move into his new home.

"I am getting used to it and really liking it. It is so close to everything. It's quiet and, overall, very nice."