The Fabia name is instantly recognised in Te Kuiti, particularly amongst long-time residents who will recall the legendary shoe factory run by local businessman Tony Anselmi. Fabia was a major employer in the friendly rural town before its eventual closure in the early 2000s; unable to compete with cheaper footwear arriving in New Zealand from overseas.

Tony Anselmi – whose family business is still New Zealand’s largest privately-owned footwear retailer – is now bringing a new phase of the Fabia story to life in the form of a new residential development on the former factory site, in partnership with respected building company, Cambridge Homes South Waikato owned by John Riggir.

Thoughtfully designed as a new village-style community, Fabia Factory Lane will boast 20 high-quality family homes when completed. Stage one is now for sale off the plans, and this stage features six one-level, three-bedroom family homes, each with a generous single garage.

Energy efficiency and environmentally responsible practices have very much been part of Tony’s plan for Fabia Factory Lane. Both Tony and John expect these homes to appeal, in particular, to young families with an entry-level budget, as well as to older downsizers coming from the town’s farming surrounds and looking for that lock-up-and-leave lifestyle.

Te Kuiti is a charming town with a colourful history. It has always been a hub servicing the local dairy, sheep and forestry industries and it is within easy proximity of Waitomo, Otorohanga and Te Awamutu.

Counting rugby legend Sir Colin Meads, former prime minister Jim Bolger and shearing superstar Sir David Fagan amongst its famous sons, Te Kuiti is the venue for the Great NZ Muster, an annual autumn event involving all things sheep related.

As a community with true heart, much of local life revolves around the excellent schools and sports fields.

The homes are being marketed as house and land packages. They are all on separate titles and in keeping with Tony Anselmi’s brief to the designers that each has its own individual personality and designed for easy living.

“We are using a variety of materials which include combinations of brick, horizontal and vertical cladding systems, and varying roof designs,” says John Riggir of Cambridge Homes.

He adds that the construction materials are being locally sourced, wherever possible, and that the show home, which is due to open near the end of this year will feature New Zealand wool carpet and sustainable engineered timber floorboards.

“The joinery features a high spec double-glazed, argon filled e-coat system. We have increased the insulation in the walls and ceilings and this along with insulated foundations brings us up to 150 per cent of the industry guidelines. These will be very warm, dry and energy efficient houses.”

John says that Tony Anselmi’s innovative re-purposing of his former factory site is proof of the entrepreneur’s loyalty and commitment to his hometown.

“Tony and Cambridge Homes share the same desire for very high standards so it is an honour to be working on this exciting project with him. Our building teams, our suppliers and merchants are all ready and committed to play their part!”

For more information visit the Fabia Factory Lane, or for enquiries call John Riggir directly on 0272512197 or email johnr@cambridgehomes.co.nz.

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