Grateful residents are beginning to see the fruits of a $600,000 renovation project by Kainga Ora in Dunedin.
One of two 1960s social housing units has been modernised, having all new plumbing, wiring and insulation.
Kainga Ora deputy chief executive for the South Island Paul Commons said it was an important step forward for the housing provider.
"We have ambitious plans for new homes in the area but we also need to take care of the ones we already have."
The first block of 14 one-bed and two-bed units took about a year to refurbish, after Covid-19 lockdown and unexpected asbestos created delays.
Logic Group project manager Cameron Olsen, who worked alongside construction firm Cook Brothers, said the original homes had reached the end of their shelf life.
There was poor ventilation in the bathrooms and kitchens, he said, as well as gaps in the window joinery.
"Some residents spoke about huge power bills to keep them warm in the winter."
Residents had been living in nearby accommodation while work was ongoing and one, Sean Paget, said he was packed and ready to move in.
"My current place is nice, I have no complaints, but this is a 100% improvement."
Mr Paget has cerebral palsy and his mother, Pat, joined him to view his upgraded apartment.
"It’s extremely important having good quality social housing. Without it these people would have absolute nowhere to go."
The second, smaller block of 12 units is to be refurbished by February 2022.
