As we start the third winter after the tragic Christchurch earthquakes we take a moment to look reflect on progress so far, look to the future and see what NZ's Homestay Network can do to help with accommodation for the rebuild. 

We have been working quietly behind the scenes to support the city by offering affordable, welcoming Christchurch accommodation to those involved in the rebuild of Christchurch.

The rebuild is happening but maybe not quick enough for most. The Press regularly  highlights the local skills shortage. I liken it to having a new born baby, initially everyone helps out, showers you with gifts and you live on adrenalin, but after a while (and 3 years is a long while) people just get on with their own lives. So for those left 'holding the baby' or, more realistically still nursing a broken home - we want Christchurch to know that we are here to support you in the best way that we can - that is to provide welcoming home-hosted accommodation for those coming for the rebuild.  

As a fellow Cantabrians and a business owner I considered practical ways I could ease the burden. Look After Me is New Zealand's largest and fastes growing Homestay Network. In Christchurch we are actively encouraging our hosts and prospective hosts the opportunity to open their doors and show the world that kiwi hospitality is thriving.  Its a win-win for all; the host has the opportunity to do their part and bring in some much needed income and the skilled worker coming to Christchurch is hosted within quality accommodation often with meals provided and in commuter friendly locations.

 

 

 

We had a story on Breakfast TV last year which highlighted our involvement in providing accommodation for the rebuild of Christchurch.

Lets consider; behind every major construction project are teams of skilled staff. Are we providing enough appropriate accommodation in Christchurch to attract and retain these people?

CERA has recently anounced that Housing Corporation Insurance claim has approved rebuild of new homes, as well as repair. 700 homes will be built on exisiting Housing Corp Land. Where are these workers going to live?  Many of the major hotels remained closed and the governemnt temporary housing scheme is limited and not necessairly appropriate.

 

Look After Me is a specialist home hosted network, we are dedicated to providing quality homestay accommodation in Christchurch and all over New Zealand. 

There are many advantages for home-hosted accommodation for your recruited staff including a warm local welcome – your staff will enjoy home comforts including breakfast and possibly other meals without the cleanup. The guest room are fully furnished just bring your toothbrush. Many of our hosts are close to bus routes for an easy commute and less inner city congestion. Working away from home or even your country is a big deal, sweetening a little with offering quality accommodation with friendly hosts…?

A recent article in The Press  highlighting the increases in rent are a sad reality for many. This problem is accentuated by additional demand from the incoming workforce.  Many guest accommodation providers such as the large hotels names are yet to reopen after the earthquake’s damage this also adding to the stress on hospitality and tourism. Winter ski tourism is a big dollar income source for the region thus pushing the short term accommodation demand up even further.

Rebuild costs and timeframes are both extended dramatically, accommodation for workers needs to become readily available.

Workers’ Temporary Accommodation in Christchurch

CERA has worked with the councils and Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) to simplify regulation of temporary Christchurch accommodation for workers. There will be a substantial demand for temporary accommodation for workers coming to greater Christchurch for the rebuild. A range of accommodation options in Christchurch will be needed to meet this demand. District plans, design guidelines and regulatory standards did not provide for this type and scale of temporary accommodation. CERA and MBIE have:

• Made district plan changes to provide certainty for councils, developers and communities on possible locations for workers’ temporary Christchurch accommodation and the matters relevant to the consenting process. Read the public notice about the district plan changes with links to full district plan changes on the councils’ websites.
• Confirmed in district plans that all temporary buildings for workers’ accommodation must be removed no later than 31 December 2022.
• Prepared guidance to help accommodation providers understand relevant Building Act and Building Code requirements. The guidance indicates areas where discretion in the Code requirements may be appropriate for this type of temporary building. Read the guidance on the MBIE website.
• Streamlined the Resource Management Act and Building Act consenting process through the district plan changes and Building Act guidance.

This article above highlights huge capital into short term solution that expensive, hosted accom is readily available and eco friendly and does not require new bylaws

Many of our hosts provide airport pick ups and weekly or Monday to Friday options are available

 

We offer a variety of accommodation options in Christchurch, from a basic guest room ($45 per night) to indulgent executive guest wing lodging. (from $125 per night). 

Here we showcase many of our accommodation options for the rebuild of Christchurch: typically in-home hosting or self-contained units. 

Budget accommodation in Christchurch - under $75

Back Yard Sunny Unit – Christchurch from $45 located in Redwood

Bridie and her partner are passionate about the rebuild and they are offering a lovely room in their two-bedroom unit on a daily or weekly arrangement. Meals can be arranged and peace and privacy are a given.

 

 

Home Sweet Homestay from $55 located in Shirley

Jill’s home is gorgeous, she is offering a lovely guest room in her home, on a daily or long-term arrangement and meals can be arrangement. She is a keen walker and loves arts and crafts all the makings of an evening conversation.

 

 

Home and Away from $55 located in North Beach

Your experienced hosts are Dianne and Graeme; they have a lovely home surrounded by award winning gardens. Conveniently located near the beach, café scene and the bus route. They are keen to host short and long term.                                                                                                                                                                                            

 

Chamomile Cottage from $60 located in Belfast

Marie’s modern sunny home is surrounded by lovely gardens, a getaway in suburbia. You’ll feel relaxed with meals by arrangement and Marie is a masseur we suggest you book a massage upon arrival.

 

 

Central City Christchurch from $65 located in Papanui

Pauline and Gary have a modern home right in Christchurch ready for you, convenient to the bus, city centre and parks. Great value for a lovely queen guest room with own bathroom, help-yourself breakfast.

 

 

Comforts of Home from $65 located in Redwood

Nick and Wilma are very genuine hosts for memorable Homestay experiences book their lovely home today. They offer two private upstairs guest rooms and they have many interests including arts and craft and of course those fishing tales perhaps an evening swapping stories is in order!

 

 

Seaside B & B from $65 located in South New Brighton

Your own beach resort, complete with Suzie your welcoming host. Choose to wander down the beach, perhaps a spot of shopping or a leisurely brunch at the nearby cafes. Suzie offers a warm guest room and a sunny courtyard.

 

 

Abode @ Bridgette’s from $70 located in Fendalton

Bridgette is an interesting lady with many a hobby and a farming background to share over a hot cuppa. Her warm modern home is seriously convenient to the airport, city and public transport.

 

 

 

 

 

Christchurch B & B from $70 located in Chester Street East

Quality Homestay experience awaits you. No need for the car as it is so very close to the city centre. Stay with your knowledgeable host in his modern home with its sunny courtyard. Cycle-trails and what’s on in the city are favourite topics.

 

 

Lavender Towers from $70 located in Avonhead

Sandy is an experienced warm host who would love you to visit her beautiful home and garden. Her lovely well appointed home coupled with home cookery is a real treat. 

 

 

 

Magic Impressions from $70 located in Papanui

Pauline offers two guest rooms with privacy and ensuite. Her modern home is well appointed and convenient to the city. She is an image consultant perhaps your wardrobe could do with a make over?

 

Modest, class accommodation in Christchurch, $75 - $100 per night

Modern Merivale Townhouse from $75 located in Merivale

A modern home with private quality upstairs guest rooms complete with own balcony and ensuite. Convenient and great value. This home was featured in our Breakfast TV story – check out our Press Room for details.

 

 

Affordable Yet Friendly from $75 located in Ferrymead

Elizabeth is easy going and fun, she will help you feel right at home. Her guest room is charming and her home is located conveniently for public transport.

 

 

Homestay Revelation Drive from $80 located in Sumner

Stunning views, relax atmosphere and seaside walking. Your hosts are friendly and have loads of interests to share including professional photography, plenty to talk about over a meal.

 

 

Relax in Riccarton from $80 located in Riccarton

Jeanette offers genuine hospitality; her delightful home is situated right in central Christchurch ideal for work, play and shopping of course!

 

 

 

Ballina from $80 located in Mt Pleasant

Stunning views, quality well appointed home, private guest rooms with ensuites and guest lounge. Mobility access and meals are a bonus. Your hosts Jane and Doug are very knowledgeable of their surroundings and will share their passion for the walking trails and the nearby beaches and reserves.

 

 

Highgate Haven from $80 located in Rolleston

Sherilyn has plenty of hospitality experience and great local knowledge she would love to spend time with you chatting about her favourite part of the world. She offers two guest rooms with their own bathroom in her modern home.

 

 

Cracroft Homestay from $85 located in Cracroft

A gorgeous studio unit ideal for a couple, completely private if you desire; with the host on hand to share a meal or a chat. Stunning views and garden outlook, delightful.

 

 

 

Welcome to Christchurch from $85 located in Papanui

Convenient to cafes, parks and walking trails this lovely home offers a private guest area and friendly hosts.

 

 

 

The Elms from $90 located in Prebbleton

Catherine is especially keen on walking and cycling. Her modern home with its rural feel is well appointed and we are sure you will enjoy the two guest rooms available with ensuite and guest bathroom. Catherine will share local knowledge over a cooked breakfast and the nearby bus stop is convenient for exploring or commuting.

 

Country in the City from $95 located in Cashmere

A beautiful rural setting in the city, welcoming and relaxing your host will introduce you to their farm pets by name. Sandy’s cooking and her coffee machine will ensure you are well hosted and alert!

 

Executive accommodation in Christchurch, priced from $100 per night 

Chic in Merivale from $100 located in Merivale

Cathy and Neil are looking forward to host you in their stunning modern home, the guest wing is stylish and well appointed. Pick your own fresh fruit and vegies yet within walking distance of town, what a wonderful way to start the working day or holiday.

 

 

 

 

 

Million Dollar Views from $100 located in Mt Pleasant

Chryssie’s home is stunning the magnificent views are picture perfect, as a guest you will be treated to your well appointed room with ensuite and balcony, privacy is paramount. Your host are serious fun and you will leave feeling cared for and had a memorable time.

 

 

Airport Guesthouse from $110 located in Harewood

This is perfect for the family or small group a quality homestay with guest wing, close to airport and the city. With many local attractions Deborah and Alan will discuss in detail over a wine or a round of golf.

 

 

Westgrove Homestay from $125 located in Avonhead

Beautiful studio awaits you, self-contained for privacy yet meals available if you choose. Well appointed and comfortable.