A new Abbeyfield 14-bedroom shared house could be built in Alexandra by the end of 2026.

The formal steering committee for the Abbeyfield housing proposal is now in the process of becoming a registered charity.

Alexandra Council of Social Services (ACSS) secretary Carole Gillions said once the charitable trust is formed they can start with funding applications for the proposed $4 million elderly persons facility.

“We’re building a membership and looking for key stakeholders,” she said.

Land had been secured that was walking distance and within 1km of local services, but the committee was still working with the developer as it went through a subdivision process.

 ACSS secretary Carole Gillions looks over plans for the proposed Abbeyfield development in Alexandra. PHOTO: The Central App

Abbeyfield was an innovative housing model for older people wanting to retain their independence, but enjoy the company of others, including shared meals.

Research showed elderly people were vulnerable living on their own as they got older, and the Abbeyfield concept enabled both independence and security.

There were currently two other houses in the lower South Island - Wakatipu and Dunedin, with three in Christchurch and four in Nelson.

The idea for the rental accommodation followed two community huis - the first one back in 2018, that identified a strong need for more elderly persons housing in the town.

ACSS carried out a survey for over 65s in Alexandra in 2023 which showed 60 out of the 300+ people were interested in shared housing.

Carole Gillions introduced the Abbeyfield concept to the ACSS in 2023, and once the steering committee was formed, it also gained consent from the parent body to go ahead with the proposal.

The steering committee was made up of Cathy Wagstaff, Marie Roxburgh, Helen Adair and Dr Bill Kaye-Blake.

Funding for the development would be both on a local and national level, and each of the 14 residents would have their own private space including an outdoor area.

“Abbeyfield New Zealand have been amazing to work with and given us that support to get to the next step,” Carole said.