Sustainable Hobsonville Pt homes an asset for Auckland

14 March 2014

Affordable, sustainable Hobsonville Pt homes an asset for Auckland

The New Zealand Green Building Council today congratulated the Hobsonville Land Company on the opening of three high quality, affordable homes in the development.

The homes, unveiled by Housing Minister Dr Nick Smith, are 6 Homestar – certifying their environmental performance – and priced between $340,000 and $485,000.

“There’s a commonly-held myth that you can’t build sustainable, high-performing homes to meet a modest budget. These homes disprove that – they’re high quality, sustainable and affordable,” said NZGBC Chief Executive Alex Cutler.

“Auckland faces real issues in terms of home affordability. These houses tackle that on two fronts – not only are they priced reasonably, but at 6 Homestar they’ll cost less to live in for years to come, with lower energy and water costs. They’ll also be warm and dry, so won’t contribute to health issues which can affect family wellbeing and become costly.

“In sharing its vision for high quality, affordable homes, the Hobsonville Land Company has created an asset for the region which is sure to inspire others.”

Among the features which will boost the home’s comfort and performance are:
• ceiling and wall insulation higher than building code (R 4.0 in the ceiling, R2.8 in the walls), and slab-edge insulation
• heat pump water heating
• energy-efficient lighting (CFLs) with no downlights
• rainwater tanks plumbed into the laundry and water-efficient toilets
• low E double glazing
• 70% of construction waste recycled
• low VOC (volatile organic compound) interior finishes.

About Homestar
Homestar is a comprehensive, independent rating tool that measures and rates the performance of New Zealand homes taking into account energy, water, waste, ventilation, health and comfort, and other environmental factors. Homestar provides professional certified ratings and a tool for homeowners to rate and improve their own homes.

Homestar is a joint venture between the New Zealand Green Building Council and BRANZ.

www.homestar.org.nz

ENDS

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