Partnership opens doors for whānau homeownership
A partnership between Tātau Tātau o Te Wairoa Trust and Kāenga Hou Trust is creating clear pathways for whānau to move from temporary accommodation into permanent homes.
At the heart of this initiative is a practical and innovative idea: repurposing cabins and PODs in Wairoa, originally used for emergency housing, into affordable homes that whānau can own.
This kaupapa is grounded in shared values. Both organisations are committed to ensuring housing solutions reflect iwi aspirations while supporting whānau with the tools they need to succeed - not just today, but for generations to come.
Kāenga Hou, a kaupapa Māori, charitable trust, plays a key role in making homeownership achievable. Through shared-ownership arrangements, Kāenga Hou can purchase a home alongside whānau, who then gradually buy out their share at an affordable interest rate. This model removes upfront financial barriers and allows whānau to move into homes sooner while building confidence and capability.
Jen Deben, Chief Executive of Kāenga Hou, says the focus goes beyond finances: “We’re focusing on intergenerational well-being and building financial resilience for whānau for the long term, not just for the here and now.”
Tātau Tātau leads housing development - managing design, consenting, and construction - while Kāenga Hou provides tailored mortgage solutions and financial mentoring. Whānau are supported every step of the way. “When parents come to meetings, they’re encouraged to bring their tamariki. It’s about building knowledge across generations,” Deben adds.
About 50 whānau have successfully completed the Sorted Kāinga Ora programme, funded by Te Puni Kōkiri and in partnership with Tātau Tātau. We are now progressing to the next stage of loan preparation. At the same time, around 50 cabins are ready for purchase and conversion into permanent homes, with several planned to be relocated and developed into new papakāinga to provide lasting, whānau-focused housing.
“Wairoa has the potential to become a trailblazer for new pathways into homeownership through this partnership. We’re focused on establishing the systems, partnerships, and local anchor points needed for the programme to operate effectively, while connecting with local initiatives such as employment and skills development. The goal is for whānau to feel supported throughout the homeownership journey, with an approach grounded in the needs and aspirations of the Wairoa community.” Deben says.
For Tātau Tātau Chief Executive Lewis Ratapu, the approach is about turning something that already exists into delivery. “By repurposing assets, we address urgent housing needs while creating a sustainable cycle to support more whānau into homes.”