Habitat partnerships support warmer, drier, safer home for Raglan homeowner

A Raglan homeowner and her tamariki are heading into winter warmer, drier and safer, through the power of partnerships.

Rebecca (Ngaati Maahanga) knew she needed some work done on her home. Her windows would ‘cry’ with condensation, and rusted roof nails were causing leaks into her ceiling. As a temporary fix, she’d had someone silicone around the nails, but she knew the damage would only get worse if left much longer.

Seeking support and practical advice, she applied for a free home assessment through the AWHI Healthy Homes Initiative, who work with Habitat to create warm, dry and healthy homes.

That’s where Habitat builder Kevin came in. He saw a way Habitat’s partnerships could work together to help make Rebecca’s home healthy and safe.

Kevin suggested Habitat’s Home Repair programme as a solution for Rebecca’s roof. Supported by BNZ, Habitat offers no-interest loans with affordable repayments to help eligible homeowners achieve critical repairs and maintenance.

“Kevin explained how the Home Repair programme worked and, because I didn’t have the money up my sleeve, I thought I’d just apply for it,” Rebecca said.

Habitat replaced Rebecca’s entire roof and some of the bargeboards. Continuing the partnership theme, Waikato-Tainui also came on board to cover a portion of Rebecca’s repairs. Since 2021, the iwi and Habitat have worked together, supporting repairs for tribal members.

“It’s awesome. I’m so grateful I was able to get that extra funding from Waikato-Tainui. I had no idea it was available.”

As a Healthy Homes delivery partner, Habitat installed new curtain rails and double-lined curtains throughout Rebecca’s home, and window safety latches to allow ventilation without putting her kids in danger of a four-metre drop outside.

Habitat also offered advice on dealing with condensation on windows and getting rid of mould in the bathroom.

While all these changes will make a difference to the health of their home, especially over winter, Rebecca says she instantly noticed the difference the curtains made.

“I didn’t realise how bad my old ones were – it was literally like a sheet, it was that worn. The new ones block out the light and keep in the warmth.”

Habitat for Humanity believes in a world where everyone has a decent place to live. With our partners by our side, together, we’re making this a reality.

Is your home in need of repairs or maintenance? Find out more about Habitat’s Home Repair programme.