Rent, Buy or Own
Waiting list
Housing New Zealand's rental homes are allocated to people on the basis of need, rather than how long you've been on the waiting list. Priority is given to people who can't get and stay in housing they can afford, and housing that is safe and is big enough for them.
The length of time you have to wait depends on your circumstances, current housing situation, and if we have the right home available for you.
If your need is not as great as others, it may take a while, so we may suggest you consider other housing options.
How the waiting list works:
If you are eligible, you will be placed on the waiting list. The list is divided into four groups. 'A' and 'B' applicants have greater priority for housing than 'C' and 'D' applicants. We use a Social Allocation System to determine an applicant's housing need.
'D' applicants, for example, are people who may already have a house they can afford. It is unlikely that we will be able to offer 'C' and 'D' applicants housing, but we keep them on the waiting list just in case.
Once you're on the waiting list we'll let you know what priority your housing need has been assessed as. We will stay in contact to check that you still want, or need, a home. You need to keep in touch with us. If you don't respond to our calls or letters within the required time, your application is cancelled and you will be removed from the waiting list.
We'll let you know when we find you a suitable home, and will invite you to come and see it.
Current waiting list:
As at 30 September 2008 there were 9,957 people on the waiting list. Of this:
- 276 were A priority (severe housing need)
- 3,841 were B priority (significant housing need)
- 3,356 were C priority (moderate housing need)
- 2,484 were D priority (lower level housing need)
Waiting list breakdown by neighbourhood unit
If your circumstances change:
If your situation changes, such as your income, family situation, or housing arrangements, we need to know as it could affect your priority on the waiting list.
Other housing options:
You may want to contact rental housing suppliers. A list is available at your neighbourhood unit. Or you could talk with Work and Income. They will let you know what benefits you may be entitled to, which could allow you to stay where you are, or find another home in the private rental market.
Querying your place on the list:
If you disagree with our decision about your eligibility or priority for housing, you can request a review. Talk with staff at your Housing New Zealand neighbourhood unit or call us on 0800 801 601 anytime. If you're not satisfied with the outcome of our review, you can take the matter to the State Housing Appeals Authority.
