Abbeyfield houses provide a family-style living environment for older people wanting to retain their independence but enjoy the company of others. There are 16 Abbeyfield houses throughout Aotearoa, including four in the Nelson region, each catering for 11-14 over 65s. Residents have their own studio with ensuite bathroom, and come together to share meals prepared by a housekeeper, who also keeps an eye on residents’ well-being. The rent is affordable for those who rely on superannuation for their income.

Abbeyfield houses are ideal for older people who are lonely or isolated, struggling to maintain a household or living in unsuitable housing, and who can’t afford market rents or a place in a retirement village. Residents benefit from the nutritious meals and the companionship of others. The purpose-built houses are warm and comfortable, which is good for residents’  health and well-being.

The Abbeyfield housing model was developed in the United Kingdom in the 1950s and introduced to Aotearoa by Wakefield GP Dr Ted Bassett, after a visit to the UK to explore retirement accommodation options. He and other supporters established Abbeyfield New Zealand in 1992. The Abbeyfield house in Stoke was the first to open in this country, in 1996, and was later followed by houses in Tāhunanui, Motueka and Golden Bay.

There are now plans to establish a third house in Nelson, in the new Maitahi Village development in the Maitai Valley. The Nelson City Council has granted $1 million towards the house’s development and a local Abbeyfield steering group will now be formed to drive a fundraising campaign to raise the rest of the money needed. The steering group will welcome donations, sponsorship and other support to get this house established. Once operating, the house will be self-funding and managed by a committee of local volunteers.

Like the other Abbeyfield houses in Nelson, the new house will provide much-needed affordable rental housing for older people, where they can live like a whānau in comfort and dignity.  They will be able to build social connections, live healthier and more active lives, and be more engaged in the community. The need for this type of housing is growing as the proportion of older people in the Nelson region continues to grow, and the number of older renters increases. A new Abbeyfield house will be an ideal housing option for some of the region’s most vulnerable people.