Celebrating new beginnings in Nelson

Recently, we gathered with partners, supporters, volunteers, staff and the local community to celebrate a special milestone on Tipahi Street, welcoming four families into their new homes through our Progressive Home Ownership programme.

Completed in January, the four new townhouses are now home to families beginning their journey toward ownership through Habitat’s rent to buy model. Over time, affordable rent helps build a deposit while providing the stability of a long term place to call home. For these families, it is not just about housing, it is about creating a secure future.

The story of Tipahi Street began after a house fire destroyed the original dwelling in 2023. The landowners chose to sell to Habitat, knowing the site would go on to provide thoughtfully designed, affordable homes for the community. In partnership with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, Nelson City Council, and with support from Rātā Foundation, four warm, well-designed homes now stand where one once did.

Each family brings their own story, their own hopes, and strong connections to the local area. Dedication events mark the moment a build site becomes a community and remind us that this work is always about people first. Stable housing creates stronger foundations for children, families and the wider community, and together we continue building toward a future where more whānau have a safe place to call home.