The $11 million private development built on the site of the former High Street Primary School is home to 47 residents from pre-school age to their 80s.
The residents occupy 24 units thoughtfully built to an energy-efficient passive-house standard.
The project is the country’s second completed cohousing scheme.
Three of the housing units are in a converted school building, which has also been fitted out with a common living and dining area, workshop and guest rooms.
There are several shared electric vehicle charging points, a laundry, sauna, gardens and a large grass area.
Representatives of Ngai Tahu and Mr Hawkins joined in the opening event with a blessing and tree-planting.
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Twenty four high specification units @ $458,333 each! ($11m/24)
That is really good value.
Sure, there are a few things you have to share, such as laundry, workshop, extra room for visitors, car parking and your garden but $234,042 per person ($11m/47) to live in modern comfort is really good value.
It's close to town, you get to know your neighbours, they get to know you (which might not be so good) and there is a mix of generations.
No doubt there will be ongoing costs but I'm willing to bet they are less than the standard, stand-alone housing.
No doubt there will be 'personality' issues that need to be managed which a clear set of expectations, standards and rules will help mitigate but it does mean it wouldn't suit everyone.
I hope it all works well for them.