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Frequently Asked Questions

While each person who will lives at One Saint Stephens will be unique, there are often similar important questions that are common to everyone. If you don’t find your question here, we’re happy to find an answer for you. Contact us here.

Construction

When will construction start?

The site for One Saint Stephens has been cleared and excavation is scheduled to begin in Q2, 2022. (subject to Auckland Council Building Consent requirements).

What is the estimated completion date?

Provided construction starts on time, it is expected that the build programme will take 30 months, with a projected completion date of Q4 2024.

What are the construction materials?

The primary materials are concrete, locally assembled steel, and high-performance double glazing, contemporary materials chosen for their permanence as well as aesthetic appeal. A significant amount of natural stone cladding has been selected for One Saint Stephens as well, adding to the durability of the building over time. 

What building warranties will be in place?

There are various Developer and building warranties that are for the benefit of Purchasers or in some cases for the Body Corporate on behalf of all owners. Some are provided by the Developer, others are provided by the builder or suppliers of materials and products for the construction and fit-out of the buildings.

  • Purchasers will receive warranties on appliances and fit-out materials used in the construction of the apartments as provided by suppliers.
  • Some building materials and works (e.g. electrical and plumbing) are warranted by the suppliers as part of their producer statements.
  • As well as specific warranties, there are implied warranties in the Agreement for Sale & Purchase under the Building Act 2004. The Building Act implied warranties are for 10 years and cover almost all aspects of building work compliant with the Building Code.

Will the building be watertight?

One Saint Stephens has been designed by a team with a great track record and will comply fully with the weather tightness and durability requirements of the New Zealand Building Code at the time.

Will my apartment be quiet?

One Saint Stephens will be built to meet or exceed the applicable New Zealand Building Code requirements at the time. Double glazed glass and comprehensive sound insulation will be a standard inclusion.

Purchasing

How many apartments are there in total?

There will be only 28 apartments in total.

Is my deposit safe?

Yes, your deposit will be held in the Development Solicitor’s Trust Account securely and independent of the Development. Net interest accrued whilst it is held will be credited to you and deducted off your purchase price on completion.

What am I purchasing?

You are purchasing an apartment, legally described as a Stratum Estate in Leasehold and comprising the apartment and any applicable car parks, storage lockers, and terraces/courtyards. The ground lease will be pre-paid for 175 years and is included in the purchase price, so you won’t need to worry about ground rent during your lifetime.  

Can I make changes to my plan design?

You may choose from two different colour palettes. As the construction process progresses, adjustments will become impractical, so we encourage you to consider these early and speak with us during the preparation of the Agreement for Sale & Purchase. The only changes that can be guaranteed are those agreed as part of the Agreement for Sale & Purchase.

Can the Developer ask for more money to meet building costs once I’ve purchased?

The Agreement for Sale & Purchase does not permit the Developer to ask for a price increase. The price you sign up at is the price you will pay.

Body Corporate

Is there a Body Corporate?

Yes, a Body Corporate will be set up to manage the Development, initially by the Developers. This will typically be for an initial term of 2 years, after which the ongoing appointment of the Body Corporate Manager will be undertaken by the Body Corporate Committee.

Who sits on the Body Corporate Committee and can I become a member?

The Body Corporate Committee is made up of apartment owners. Typically owners will be invited to put their name forward and all owners vote a committee in. You can choose to be as active or passive as you like in your Body Corporate.

What do the Body Corporate rules generally cover?

The Body Corporate Rules provide a framework for residents at One Saint Stephens to enjoy a safe and quiet lifestyle. The rules cover the use of both common areas, as well as setting out obligations for when you are within your home.  It sets out restrictions and obligations and generally applies to aspects such as noise, maintenance, hanging of laundry, rubbish disposal and so forth.

Where can I find out about the Body Corporate Fees and what they cover?

A copy of the draft Body Corporate Budget is available which outlines each item covered line by line, including contributions to the Long Term Maintenance Fund.

Do I pay Council Rates separate to my Body Corporate Fees?

Yes, every property owner in New Zealand pays an annual amount to their City Council, this goes towards maintenance of streets, parks, and the safety of the city. The cost is calculated from a valuation of your property, known as the Capital Value (CV) or Rateable Value (RV). This assessment will not be undertaken by the Council until after your apartment is completed. You can find more information on the Auckland City Council website, including rates estimates for similar valued properties.

Living at One Saint Stephens

Will there be an on-site manager?

The Body Corporate will employ a visiting building manager who will come on site, as required and on request, to manage the building operations and maintenance activities; including cleaning of common areas, rubbish collection, gardening, and building exterior as well as general maintenance and other items as required.

Will there be car parking and storage for residents?

Secure car parking is provided and all apartments at One Saint Stephens come with at least one car parking space, and at least one storage area in addition to what is found within the apartment. These are typically dedicated storage rooms.

What happens to rubbish and recycling?

There is a rubbish, recycling and green waste bin area provided in the basement for residents to dispose of their household waste. The bins are collected regularly by a private contractor to make sure the basement is kept clean and tidy.

How secure will my apartment be?

All entry points to One Saint Stephens are controlled by electronic swipe card access. Audio/visual links are provided to allow visitor entry. Vehicle entry and exit from the parking garage will be controlled through number plate recognition, with a wireless remote as a backup option.

What internet and media connections are supplied to my apartment?

All apartments will be provided with high-speed fibre internet and you are welcome to select your Internet Service Provider of choice. Digital TV connections are also provided to all apartments.

How will the shared garden areas, pool and wellness area be maintained?

The Body Corporate will be tasked with employing a gardening maintenance and a pool maintenance service to keep all shared outdoor areas to an appropriate standard. Additionally, the internal common areas such as the private dining, bar and wellness areas will be regularly cleaned and maintained. Residents will be expected to arrange event specific cleaning for their personal events or usage. All residents contribute towards the Body Corporate fees.

Will the amenities like the wellness area, private dining, bar and car valet area be bookable?

All amenities will be available for casual use at times agreed by The Body Corporate, or can be booked for periods of exclusive use by residents.

Am I allowed to keep pets in my apartment?

One Saint Stephens is pet friendly and the rules for pets are set out in the draft Body Corporate rules. Approval of pets will be at the discretion of the Body Corporate Committee.

Will I be able to charge my EV?

At time of purchase, each apartment will have the option to purchase an EV charger to be installed in one of the allocated car parks. If you don’t need one just yet, you will have a general purpose outlet for one of your car parks that will be ready for you to convert to an EV charger once you have moved in.