Business North July 2025

24 | Summerset Group Holdings: Cambridge REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Summerset’s Cambridge retirement village is hitting significant development milestones with the first residents settling into the northern extension, and two show serviced apartments preparing to launch to the market in the coming weeks. “We’re delighted to see residents already enjoying life here at Summerset Cambridge,” says Allan Shortland, Summerset Group’s construction manager. “The first handover of three villa blocks in the northern extension is also imminent, and we’re witnessing a real community beginning to flourish.” The northern extension was opened ahead of schedule, due to overwhelming demand for the homes, demonstrating the appeal of the thoughtfully designed retirement community at 1 Mary Ann Drive. With the initial villa and cottage phases now complete, attention has turned to the village centre building, which has reached the interior fit-out stage and remains on track for completion later this year. “The village centre building structure is finished, and we now have around 130 workers on-site progressing the interior work,” says Allan. It will also showcase Summerset’s innovative approach to retirement living, including the introduction of the Rimu home type. Comprising four homes across two levels, with two units downstairs and two upstairs, the design incorporates a central core providing lift and stair access alongside internal-access garaging for each residence. “We’re utilising sustainable, lightweight cross-laminated timber (CLT) construction, which reduces our dependence on non-renewable resources, such as steel and concrete,” says Allan. CLT is exceptionally strong, versatile, and a sustainable building material that outperforms traditional construction materials in several aspects that will hold value for both our residents and investment groups. It’s also considerably quicker and more efficient in terms of build times, and residents will be able to view this innovative product within the village centre building.” Alongside the residential developments, the village’s hobby lounge and workshop are also taking shape, with completion scheduled for the end of the year. This addition will provide residents with dedicated spaces for pursuing their interests and hobbies, further enhancing the community atmosphere that is already developing, says Allan. The Cambridge village, with views towards Maungakawa Scenic Reserve, offers convenient access to local shops, cafés, and amenities. Its proximity to the Waikato Expressway T T Karen Phelps Community vibe growing at new village The northern extension was opened ahead of schedule, due to overwhelming demand for the homes. “We’re utilising sustainable, lightweight cross-laminated timber (CLT) construction, which reduces our dependence on non-renewable resources, such as steel and concrete.” and nearby cycleways ensures residents remain well-connected to the broader region. When complete, the village will encompass 240 independent homes, featuring a diverse mix of homes including two- and three-bedroom villas, two-bedroom cottages and spacious serviced apartments. The villas, designed as single-storey residences, offer modern, open-plan living with contemporary kitchens, laundry facilities and outdoor spaces. Each villa includes one dual-access ensuite bathroom and a second toilet, complete with accessible showers, grab rails, and slip-resistant flooring, as well as internal-access garages. The cottage homes focus on low-maintenance living, featuring two bedrooms and generous open-plan areas, with many seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor living spaces. Allan says the village centre building will serve as the heart of the community. It will also house an additional 56 units in the comprehensive care centre, offering various care options, including Summerset’s renowned memory care centre specifically designed for residents living with dementia. All care facilities, once certified by the Ministry of Health, will provide both rest home and hospital-level care. “Our villages are accredited as dementia-friendly, with specially trained staff to support residents with dementia,” explains Allan. “This reflects our commitment to providing a continuum of care throughout residents’ journey with us.” Community facilities planned for the village centre include an indoor heated swimming pool and spa, gymnasium, library, café, recreational bowling green and petanque court. The village’s courtesy van service will help residents maintain connections to the local community through regular trips to shops and amenities, and an on-site activities coordinator will ensure a varied programme of events and activities. Since beginning operations in 1997, Summerset has established itself as a leader in retirement living. “With over 8700 residents currently enjoying the Summerset lifestyle across our villages, we understand what creates vibrant, welcoming communities,” says Allan. We Cultivate, You Celebrate Garden Care • Lawn Care • Water Blasting Rubbish & Green Waste Removal • Projects & Clean Ups G e t i n C o n t a c t f o r a f r e e q u o t e ! Email: micheal@edenpropertycare.co.nz Phone: 0274777827 EDEN PROPERTY CARE

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