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Revitalising a Family Home: A Three-Decade Journey of Renovation and Renewal

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24 Feb 2025
Belindaand Helena Fernaig Street HRP 2024 08 2
"We can all relax knowing that she’s living in a place that’s truly looking after her.”

For over three decades Helena’s home has been a safe haven for her entire family. Purchased in 1989, this whare (home) has witnessed the growth of Helena's younger children and many mokopuna. Over the years, the home has served as a gathering place for the family, providing shelter, support, and comfort to all those who needed it.

However, as time passed, the house began to show its age. A leaking roof became a major concern, causing water to drip into the home, which created challenges for everyone in the home, especially Helena. The leak not only caused damage to the ceiling but also worsened Helena’s respiratory health, making it increasingly difficult for her to live safely in the house.

Before: See the transformation of the kitchen renovation!

“It was a constant worry. There was a stream of water coming down from the roof, pooling in the ceiling, and the problem only worsened over time,” says her daughter, Belinda. Helena had to contend with the late-night routine of emptying a 10-litre bucket of water filled each night by the leak in the ceiling, a constant worry due to her mobility issues.

The renovation process was transformative for the house, bringing much-needed repairs and upgrades. Thanks to a partnership between Habitat and Te Puni Kōkiri, the home underwent significant renovations, including the installation of a new roof, a new accessible bathroom, and an updated kitchen. The repairs and improvements have completely revitalised the home, making it a place of warmth, dryness, and safety once again.

Today, Belinda and Helena are proud of the whare and excited to show it off. They recently hosted Helena’s 80th birthday celebration in the home. It was a special occasion that not only celebrated her mum’s milestone but also symbolised the transformation of their family home, allowing her to continue the tradition of welcoming friends and whānau into the whare and making memories in the space.

“The home is warmer, drier, and safer now. Mum is healthier, and we can all relax knowing that she’s living in a place that’s truly looking after her.”

This house has been the heart of the family for many years and will continue to be for generations to come.

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