Community housing

Nelson City Council owns units in Nelson which it rents to older people in need of affordable housing. At present Council owns 142 community housing units at nine locations around the city. These were built with Government low interest loans.

Latest news

February 2010

Council has begun upgrading the insulation in its community housing units, assisted by funding from the goverment's Warm Up New Zealand: Heat Smart programme.

Installation of ceiling insulation has taken place in Council's Atawhai and Devon Street community housing complexes so far, but the plan is to upgrade all units as funding allows.

Applying for a Council unit

You will need to fill out an application form. You can register your interest now - with no obligation. You may download an application form or call Opus International Consultants on +64 3 546 3664 to have one posted. Download an application form to fill-out and return (PDF).

Forms can also be picked up from the Reception counters at Opus International Consultants Ltd 77 Selwyn Place, Level 1, Fashion Island.

If you need assistance completing the application, or would like more information, please call Opus International Ltd on +64 3 546 3664.

Criteria

Priority is given to persons over 65.  55 is the minimum age.

What happens after applying?

Once you have completed an application form, contact Opus International Ltd on +64 3 546 3664 and arrange a time to discuss your application. Soon after meeting, you will be advised whether or not you qualify for a Council unit, and the length of the waiting list (if applicable).

Number and location of units

Nelson City Council currently owns 142 units.Most are located near shopping centres and bus routes throughout the city. They are at:

  • 124 Toi Toi Street
  • 179 Waimea Road
  • 24 Karaka Street
  • 327 Nayland Road
  • 45 Devon Street
  • 75 Atawhai Drive
  • 4 Examiner Street
  • 198 Songer Street
  • 9 Blackwood Street

Bedsit

  • Karaka
  • Examiner
  • Blackwood

One bedroom

  • Toi Toi
  • Waimea
  • Karaka
  • Nayland
  • Blackwood

Double bedroom

  • Toi Toi
  • Waimea
  • Karaka
  • Nayland
  • Devon
  • Atawhai
  • Blackwood
  • Songer

Size of units and what is included in each unit

The units are bedsits, single or double bedroom units suitable for individuals or couples. All units contain a stove, carpets, smoke alarms, extractor fans and vinyl in the service areas.

Curtains are provided by tenants. Some units are available with special amenities, such as walk-in showers, for persons with disabilities.

Building insurance, water and general rates are paid for by the Council. Tenants are responsible for their own contents insurance.

Unit residents

Nelson City Council units are available to those in need of long-term housing. Tenants who are aged over 55, reliant on National Superannuation or on a permanent benefit, and have income and assets not exceeding $40,000 for a couple or $25,000 for a single person.

People living in our units act responsibly and contribute to the community lifestyle.

What the units cost

Nelson City Council aims to keep the units as affordable as possible. Rent is currently set at 25% of national superannuation.

Please contact Opus International Ltd on +64 3 546 3664 for advice on the current rates.

Tenants must commence the tenancy by paying two weeks rent in advance. Work and Income New Zealand may be able to assist with this payment.

Are pets allowed?

Dogs are not allowed and cats are only allowed in exceptional circumstances.

More information

For more information please contact Opus International Ltd on +64 3 546 3664.