In this episode of the Funding Files, Simone Woodland from Circle Living shares her journey from architecture and social entrepreneurship in the UK to founding a co-housing community in Golden Bay, New Zealand.
After securing a 14.5-hectare site from a local farmer with a 10% deposit and a promise theyโd figure out how to fund the rest in 9 months, Simone went on to develop 34 homes with a focus on community, sustainability, and land regeneration.
Over the course of the development Simone raised โFarmer Financeโ (or vendor finance), loans from future residents at competitive interest rates, and multiple bank mortgages. After their first development, the founders decided to start Circle Living, to expand co-housing projects across New Zealand, using a limited company structure to secure land and manage developments with investment from residents and external investors. They are currently raising capital through equity crowdfunding, with the campaign closing Tuesday, 29 October 2025 at 8pm NZ. Learn more here: https://www.pledgeme.co.nz/investments/619-circle-living-ltd
Challenges included managing emotions and financial risks in a post COVID world, especially amid rising interest rates during construction. The project exemplifies sustainable development preserving land and fostering intergenerational support, with ongoing capital raising to fund further neighborhoods. Simone highlights the social benefits of co-housing, including shared care, community meals, and diverse age groups living together, promoting connection and support.
Kia ora and welcome everyone to THE FUNDING FILES, hosted by Anna Guenther and Matt Stevens, where we explore the highs, lows and cashflows of funding a business in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Huge thanks to the founders for sharing their stories, to our board for inspiring us to make this pod, and to Rory Harnden for making our design and intro string.
