Catalyst Housing

About This Project

Catalyst Housing is a charitable company which was created by BAF in 2016 following research into the need for affordable housing in Taranaki with the aim of providing pathways to sustainable housing. Our vision is that ‘Within Taranaki those who need it have access to truly affordable and healthy housing options’.

Initially, Catalyst Housing worked with Housing New Zealand (now Kainga Ora) and the New Plymouth District Council to engage with the local community and develop the initial masterplan for the redevelopment programme within the Marfell neighbourhood. Our role ended when this original masterplan was brought into the Kiwibuild scheme with Kainga Ora leading the creation of the final plan and implementing the new housing development.

The need for Catalyst Housing has shifted since its inception with the growth and commitment locally by Kainga Ora, local Councils and Iwi, hapu and philanthropic funders to develop housing solutions.  In response to this Catalyst Housing has refocused and is assessing opportunities where it can make a difference including scoping specific projects such as keyworker ‘boarder’ style accommodation, exploring with NPDC the potential for Housing for the Elderly expansion under a dedicated housing trust, working with churches who have land and are motivated to achieve positive housing outcomes and exploring the potential for solar energy outcomes for social housing / retirement housing.