Abbeyfield House Opens Its Doors to Katikati Seniors After Six-Year Journey

After six years of fundraising, planning and construction, the newly built Abbeyfield House on Wills Road in Katikati has officially become a home — with a blessing held on 29 September and tenants beginning to move in this week. The facility offers 14 studio-style rooms across three north-facing wings for senior residents with modest or limited assets.

Abbeyfield Western Bay of Plenty committee chairperson Carole Parker said securing the funding was no small feat. The project drew on grants from philanthropic trusts, individual donations, and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development. As recently as early 2024, the committee still faced a $280,000 shortfall, which was bridged in part by a $50,000 gift from a Katikati couple channelled through the Acorn Foundation. Mount-based iLine Construction spent six months on site bringing the project to life, with the build passing its final council inspection before site handover.

Each room opens via ranch slider to a private outdoor terrace with a small garden, and features a walk-in ensuite bathroom, large wardrobe and bench space. Communal areas include a large living and dining room, two fully equipped shared kitchens, and laundry facilities. Parker said 11 residents were already lined up, with a selection process under way to confirm the final three from a mix of male and female applicants — all with a connection to Katikati.

Parker, who has volunteered on the committee for six years and will serve as the volunteer house manager, said the project was about more than housing. "Social isolation — we hear about people on their own, who don't get out much — so the tenants are really happy they are coming to a place where they can socially connect with others." Abbeyfield WBOP is continuing to accept tenancy applications, as vacancies may arise over time.

Originally published in Katikati News (Sun Media).