Enliven, part of the not-for-profit organisation Presbyterian Support Central, is behind the development on Totara Street in Lansdowne, Masterton.
Up to 52, two-bedroom retirement villas will be built on the property adjacent to Enliven’s Kandahar Home.
Yesterday staff, residents and iwi representatives attended an on-site blessing before work started this morning.
Contractors are now clearing the site, with the first 12 villas expected to be completed by October.
Chief Executive Pat Waite says it’s an exciting time for Enliven and the Kandahar community.
“For Enliven this is much more than just building a few houses, we have a strong emphasis on creating a caring, supportive and stylish community for Wairarapa retirees.
“Wairarapa has experienced significant growth and development in the last few years; we’re excited to be offering retirees another lifestyle option.”
Enliven operates rest homes and retirement villages across the lower North Island, including Kowhainui Home and Village in Whanganui.
“The Kandahar development is very similar to the townhouses we have at Kowhainui Village which are very popular,” says Pat.
The development will also include a village community centre which will be available for use by village residents and the wider Wairarapa community.
