Te Pākau Maru: An inclusive, innovative, and sustainable new sheltering place

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February 13, 2025

Christian Savings’ long-standing partners, Home Foundation, have broken ground on an exciting new residential development in the heart of New Brighton, Christchurch. This project, named Te Pākau Maru, is set to transform the area with 63 new beachside townhomes, designed to foster a sense of community and sustainability.

The first stage of Te Pākau Maru will feature 25 mixed-tenure homes, including options for progressive home ownership, build-to-rent, community housing, and market sales. This diverse range of housing options ensures that the development caters to a wide variety of residents, promoting inclusivity and accessibility.

A key aspect of Te Pākau Maru's vision is the creation of warm, affordable apartments. These homes are designed to foster a sense of community among neighbors, encouraging interaction and support within the development. Each home is built to a 7 Homestar rating, ensuring they are healthier and more efficient for the residents.

Sustainability is at the core of Te Pākau Maru. The development pioneers a new system of measuring and offsetting embedded carbon throughout the construction process. This innovative approach not only reduces the environmental impact of the build but also ensures that the homes are fully adaptive to changes in climate and sea levels for the next 200 years.

Te Pākau Maru, which means "the sheltering wing," was inspired by Psalm 63:7: "Because you are my helper, I sing for joy in the shadow of your wings." This beautiful vision of shelter and peace is reflected in the design and purpose of the development. The traditional Māori name for the area, Te Kararo Kararo, meaning "the place of chattering birds," further emphasizes the sense of community and connection that Te Pākau Maru aims to create.

Christian Savings is proud to support this project, providing the necessary financing to bring this vision to life. Their commitment to values-driven development and community support is evident in their involvement with Te Pākau Maru.

As the first stage of Te Pākau Maru progresses, the excitement and anticipation within the community continue to grow. This development is not just about building homes; it's about creating a sustainable, inclusive, and supportive community where residents can thrive for generations to come.

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