The three-bedroom units are being built in the UK and will arrive in the region in the middle of the year. Photo: Supplied.

Caravans to fight housing crisis

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Prospective homeowners in Richmond might be in for a bit of luck, thanks to a new small home housing project in Richmond.

The new managers of Queen Street Holiday Park, on lower Queen Street in Richmond, are setting up ‘Static Caravans’ in their camp. The Static Caravans are designed to look like tiny homes and will be parked permanently in the camp.

The campground, which has been running for seven years, has more than 60 permanent residents, and manager Vicky McDowell says that it has a strong sense of community already.

Nikki Ryan, the agent working with the campground to sell the caravans, says that the 30 units have been made specially to fit in with New Zealand building specifications, including insulation.

The large caravans are three-bedroom units, with two bathrooms and a kitchen and living space.

“It’s a great way for people, in an increasingly expensive area, to own something,” says Nikki.

Vicky and Wayne McDowell, the managers of the campground, say that they have seen how the housing crisis can hit families and that these new units may be able to provide an opportunity for those who want to own their own home, but can’t afford the increasing prices in the region.

“We want people who aren’t hugely wealthy to have a shot at owning something and having a good lifestyle,” says Nikki.

Nikki Ryan, with Queen Street Holiday Park camp managers Wayne and Vicky McDowell. Photo: Matt McCrorie.
Nikki Ryan, with Queen Street Holiday Park camp
managers Wayne and Vicky McDowell.
Photo: Matt McCrorie.

The caravans come complete with appliances, making move-in costs low, says Nikki.

Prospective buyers would be looking at an asking price of $189,950, as well as paying a weekly fee for the land at the campground.

Vicky and Wayne said that it was important for the camp to maintain a community aspect, and an electric vehicle, a motor home, and a boat will all be available for use by camp residents.

“The camp owner wants to create a wonderful environment for you offering a champagne lifestyle on a beer budget,” says Nikki.

“With the way the housing market is going in this area, people are having to find other ways to own, and this is an option for people.”

The camp expects the static caravans to be on-site approximately May/ June 2020.

The listing is available to view on Trademe.