Accommodation

Avonlea has a residential capacity for caring for 64 people. This is achieved by the division of the facility into 5 separate ‘homes’.

Aroha, Ofa and Rudo homes, locally referred to as ‘downstairs (though there are no stairs, just a gentle ramp) are separated by one door with a security keypad. This is one of only 6 ‘dead-ends’ that residents might encounter in a long walking path that leads into garden areas and through other homes. All of the three homes differ slightly in design, which gives the feeling of entering a different environment with a unique character.

Each of the 3 homes has an open plan kitchen/dining room/lounge area. This is in keeping with New Zealand house design and replicates the interior of many homes.

Residents are able to access the kitchen area, though the hot water supply is situated behind a kitchen cupboard door with a catch to prevent easy access to boiling water. Although the resident meals are not prepared in these kitchen areas, it is possible to prepare food here, and to take part in homely activities such as sweeping the floor, wiping down the benchtop or drying the dishes. Diversional therapists often conduct cooking activities with residents in these kitchen areas, and the smell of fresh baking often greets visitors on arrival.

The other two homes, yet to be named, also have their own special character.

Two levels of accommodation are available at Avonlea, standard and superior. All rooms have at least a shared en suite with toilet, hand basin and shower, and the superior rooms are spacious and have their own private en suite. Most rooms have delightful garden views.