Buying guide

Cohousing living, what’s it all about?

Building cohousing from scratch or with existing homes.

Gill South
Last updated: 15 May 2024 | 3 min read
AI

AI summary

Cohousing offers a community living model where residents own their homes while sharing facilities. Successful examples like Auckland's Earthsong and Cohaus, and the Tākaka Cohousing Project, highlight the benefits: strong neighbourly support, shared spaces like common houses and gardens, and sustainable design.

While projects require determination and clear financing, the result is a balance of private living and community connection. Developments are often structured as standard unit titles, providing more amenities than typical properties for a similar price.

Earthsong

Cohaus Auckland

Photograph by Adam Luxton

Tākaka cohousing project, Golden Bay looking for new residents to join its second neighbourhood

Tips on starting a cohousing project

Author

Gill South Gill South
Business and property journalist