Chatham Island
Warmer Kiwi Homes Update for Chatham & Pitt Islands
Kia ora homeowner,
Thank you for submitting your Expression of Interest for an insulation grant through the Warmer Kiwi Homes programme. We’re excited to share the next steps in this journey toward warmer, healthier homes.
Awarua Synergy—an approved Warmer Kiwi Homes provider based in Invercargill (originated from Bluff)—has been appointed to lead assessments and potential insulation installations across both Chatham and Pitt Islands. Many of you may already know our Chief Executive, Sumaria Beaton, who has previously delivered energy efficiency workshops with local community groups.
Together with our partners, we’ve been working on a delivery plan to begin onsite assessments in November 2025, with installations expected to follow in early 2026.
Watch here for more information
Haven’t registered, you still have time, fill in the form below
Assessment Team
Shanan Kapene
Sunia Fiso
Shane Beaton
What happen’s next?
Here’s a timeline of key milestones for the Warmer Kiwi Homes rollout on Chatham and Pitt Islands:
October & November 2025
We’ll begin contacting interested homeowners to confirm details and book assessment appointments for November.November 2025
Our team will visit eligible properties for a 30-minute onsite assessment to measure up for insulation.
We’ll also host Healthy Homes workshops open to all community members—come along to learn practical tips and ask questions.November 2025
Homeowners will receive detailed information about insulation subsidies, eligibility, and next steps.February – March 2026
Insulation installations will commence for approved homes.
If you have whānau or friends who may be interested, please encourage them to fill out the form
What gets installed?
Ceiling Insulation
Underfloor Insulation
Moisutre Barrier
Frequently asked questions
What if my house is old?
- Older homes are absolutely eligible for assessment and upgrades under the Warmer Kiwi Homes programme
- In fact, older homes often benefit the most from insulation upgrades. Many were built before modern insulation standards, so the improvements can make a big difference in warmth, health, and energy costs.
- Our assessors are trained to work with older buildings. They’ll check ceiling spaces, underfloor areas, and note any access limitations or safety concerns.
- If your home has unique features or limited access, we’ll work with you to find safe, practical solutions. In some cases, partial upgrades may be recommended if full access isn’t possible.
- You won’t be penalized for age or condition. The goal is to make your home warmer and healthier — and we’ll do what we can to support that.
Who will visit my home?
One of our friendly team members will carry out the assessment. They’ll arrive on their own and bring a ladder to safely check your ceiling and underfloor areas. All assessors are trained, respectful, and experienced in working with a wide range of homes — including many across Southland
What is the purpose of the assessment?
To determine eligibility for free insulation and/or heating under the Warmer Kiwi Homes programme, and to assess what upgrades your home may need.
Will the assessor go into the ceiling or under the house?
Yes, if safe and accessible. They’ll inspect insulation and take measurements.
What should I prepare before the visit?
Please ensure safe access to all rooms, ceiling manholes, and underfloor areas.
Do I need to be home during the assessment?
It’s ideal if a homeowner or trusted adult is present during the visit, but if you’re away, we can still proceed. With your permission, our assessor can enter and carry out the check while no one is home — a process we’ve used successfully across many Southland homes with no issues. Alternatively, if someone else can be present on your behalf, that works too.
How long does the assessment take?
Most assessments take 20–30 minutes.
Is there any cost for the assessment?
No. Assessments are free for eligible homeowners as part of the campaign.
*Conditions and eligibility apply
