Is Cohousing For You?

Watched the Videos?

Meet Your Instructor

Simone Woodland

Simone Woodland is a UK-trained architect and Edmund Hillary Fellow based in Aotearoa New Zealand.

She is the founder and resident of Tākaka Cohousing Neighbourhood, and is driven to create sustainable, community-led neighbourhoods that prioritise shared living, ecological design, and collective wellbeing.

What You’ll Learn

  • We unpack what cohousing really is (and what it’s not). You'll learn how cohousing blends private homes with shared spaces, how it's different from a commune or flatting, and why it’s becoming a compelling alternative to the traditional housing model.

  • We cover the legal structure behind our cohousing community, how ownership works, and how we make decisions using Sociocracy — a collaborative, consent-based governance system.

  • Explore the many benefits that come with living in a connected, intergenerational community — from shared meals and support networks to reduced living costs, smarter use of resources, and a stronger sense of belonging.

  • Learn how you can explore the project more deeply, connect with our team, and take practical steps toward joining the community if it feels like the right fit.