Who lives in townhouses and similar units? A market analysis in Ilam/Avonhead, Christchurch

Abstract

1 This report studies issues related to and the nature of people occupying townhouses and similar units in north-west Christchurch. 2 A structured, quantitative survey document was prepared and hand-delivered to townhouse residents in a selected area of llam/ Avonhead. A very good response of 70 per cent was received- 35 of the 50 questionnaires were returned completed. 3 Marginally more males than females answered the questionnaire. Ninety-four percent of the respondents owned their units and most were professional people {both active and retired). Eighty per cent of the respondents had moved to dwelling units from single dwellings. Almost three-quarters of the units had three bedrooms. Ownership in 80 per cent of the cases was by crosslease. Proximity to shopping centres was the major reason for respondents selecting this location. The majority of respondents were happy with townhouse living and would prefer to remain in a unit rather than a single residence. 4 This small study could be repeated in other parts of Christchurch or in other cities around New Zealand. The results could be analysed further to examine relationships among variables, but this approach would be more accurate with a larger sample.