The sale of property in Richmond, Nelson has enabled the Nelson Tasman Methodist Parish to purchase four rental houses with the proceeds. Tenants are grateful to be able to access modern, safe housing at an affordable rate.

In December 2021 the Richmond congregation voted unanimously to sell their well-positioned church and Wesley gardens and unite with the Stoke congregation. A land story was prepared and MCPC approved the sale of the property.

A committee including representatives from the Richmond and Stoke congregations was appointed to advise and manage the removal of chattels and the sale. A sales agent was appointed, and the committee accepted a tender from the Tasman District Council with settlement due last August.

A deconsecrating service in the Richmond church on 30 July was led by the Rev Kathryn Walters, Synod Superintendent. The Richmond congregation’s recommendation to purchase rental accommodation suitable for those who struggle to find affordable accommodation was agreed to by MCPC and four modern stand-alone

houses were purchased with proceeds from the sale. The homes are all tenanted by people, in or near retirement age, who have not achieved home ownership.

The parish now owns six rental houses including the previous St. John’s and

Richmond parsonages as well as five flats on the Stoke site built in 1976.

Caption: Residents Peter and Bruce are very happy with their new homes purchased with the proceeds of the Richmond Church.