Abbeyfield New Zealand Inc

17/06/2026

More and more older New Zealanders are finding themselves without the security of a safe, affordable home, and that should concern all of us.

Abbeyfield New Zealand is working with development committees across the country to change that, with more than 10 houses in the pipeline for people over 65 who need companionship as well as affordable housing.

It takes real community commitment to make each Abbeyfield House a reality. For a 14-room house, we typically need around 50% upfront funding, or about $2.5 million depending on land value, which works out at less than $200,000 per unit over a 50-year lifespan.

That is a lasting investment in dignity, safety, and connection for older people. Even a small donation can help move a house from dream to reality, so please support Abbeyfield New Zealand through our Givealittle page today. givealittle.co.nz/org/abbeyfield

A long-time Whangārei housing advocate says official numbers of people living rough are "the tip of the iceberg".

16/06/2026

Te Wiki Tūao ā-Motu - National Volunteer Week

Supporting our volunteers means setting them up for success with clear guidance, the right tools, and a welcoming environment. Small things can make a big difference, like a comfortable chair, clear signage, or a shared parking space.

It’s also about inclusion. Volunteers are not separate from the Abbeyfield team; they are the team. When we share spaces, stories, and purpose, we build lasting friendships.

Thank you for bringing your warmth and wisdom to everything you do.

16/06/2026

Te Wiki Tūao ā-Motu

Every volunteer brings their own reasons for getting involved, such as friendship, a love of community, or the joy of giving back. Those reasons can change over time, so regular check-ins matter.

When we understand what keeps people turning up, we can better meet their needs. At Abbeyfield, we make sure our volunteers feel they belong as part of one caring, connected team.

This week, take a moment to ask your fellow volunteers, what do you love most about being part of Abbeyfield?

15/06/2026

HUD’s briefing is clear that meeting the needs of an ageing population will require sustained, collaborative action across sectors. That means not just acknowledging the need, but investing in the solutions that work.

Abbeyfield is one of those solutions. We are ready to help older New Zealanders live with dignity, security, and connection.

Help us build for the future.
Make a gift, become a partner, or help us advocate for more Abbeyfield homes.
https://www.abbeyfield.co.nz/donate/

15/06/2026

Te Wiki Tūao ā-Motu - This Volunteer Week, we’re celebrating the people who give something truly precious their time.

Abbeyfield volunteers bring warmth, laughter, and companionship to our residents every day. They show up, listen, and care deeply, even when life gets busy and the cost of living feels heavy.

Thank you to every Abbeyfield volunteer for helping turn our houses into homes filled with connection and kindness.

14/06/2026

Today is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.

In the past year, more than 3,000 older people or concerned whānau reached out for help through Age Concern’s Elder Abuse and Neglect Prevention services. Behind every call is a story of courage and a decision that something needs to change.

At Abbeyfield, we see every day how safe, supportive communities help older people feel valued, connected, and respected. Everyone deserves to live free from harm, with dignity and a sense of belonging.

This day, and every day, take a moment to check in on the older people in your life, learn the signs of abuse, and help keep this conversation going.

Elder abuse is preventable. Together, through care, awareness, and community, we can create places where older people feel safe and supported.

Find out more here: www.ageconcernauckland.org.nz/what-we-do/elder-abuse-response-service/

13/06/2026

**Te Wiki Tūao ā-Motu*
At Abbeyfield, we understand that volunteering today comes with many demands on people’s time and energy. That’s why we’re especially grateful for those who choose to share their skills, compassion, and care with our residents and homes.

We appreciate our volunteers’ commitment, knowing they give their time amidst busy lives and rising pressures. Their willingness to show up again and again reminds us what community truly means.

We value their resilience and generosity in a changing world. Even as the cost of living rises and free time becomes scarce, our volunteers continue to offer warmth, companionship, and practical help that enriches daily life for our residents.

We admire the experience and wisdom of our volunteers, many of whom bring lifelong skills and insights to their roles. They demonstrate that age is not a barrier but a strength that deepens the connection between generations.

We are inspired by their adaptability and creativity. As community needs evolve, they are quick to find new ways to connect, support, and make a difference, often bringing fresh ideas or embracing new technologies that help us stay relevant and responsive.

We appreciate our volunteers’ commitment to inclusiveness. Every act of kindness, large or small, helps make Abbeyfield a place where everyone feels valued and connected.

Above all, we treasure their spirit of community. Our volunteers are the heart and hands of Abbeyfield, making it possible to offer companionship, independence, and dignity to older people across New Zealand.

12/06/2026

Housing that supports independence

Good housing design can help older people stay independent longer, and accessible homes can reduce falls and delay care needs. New Zealand research cited found improved accessibility reduced home fall injuries by 26 percent and related costs by 33 percent.

Abbeyfield homes are designed around those same principles. They are affordable, secure, and community-based.
Donate to help us build more Abbeyfield homes.
https://givealittle.co.nz/org/abbeyfield

11/06/2026

The homes we have do not match the need

The report makes it clear that our housing stock is still dominated by three-bedroom homes, even though an ageing population needs more diverse, accessible, and affordable options. It also warns that simply building more small homes will not solve the problem unless the system changes.

Abbeyfield homes help fill this gap with smaller, well-designed homes that support independence and community.

Help us expand the Abbeyfield model where it is needed most.

https://www.abbeyfield.co.nz/donate/

10/06/2026

What is life really like inside an Abbeyfield house?

In this podcast episode, we step inside the places that make Abbeyfield what it is: not just the buildings, but the everyday moments that happen within them. From shared meals and familiar routines to quiet companionship and laughter, Inside the House offers a glimpse into daily life and the sense of belonging that comes from living alongside others.

This episode brings listeners closer to the heart of Abbeyfield, exploring how home is created through connection, care, and community.

Whether you’re curious about Abbeyfield, connected to a local society, or simply interested in how people live well together later in life, this episode invites you to take a look inside.

🎧 Listen now — and uncover another hidden treasure of Abbeyfield.

Abbeyfield Presents: Hidden Treasures · Episode