Research and Policy
New Zealand Housing Strategy - overview
The New Zealand Housing Strategy sets out a vision and strategic direction for housing up to 2015. It takes a collaborative approach to strengthening the housing sector's ability to provide affordable, quality housing for all New Zealanders.
Central and local government, Maori/Iwi, Pacific groups and the wider housing sector all have a role to play - the Strategy aims to coordinate their efforts towards shared housing goals.
The Strategy was launched in May 2005 following extensive consultation in May and June 2004. During this time, more than 500 people attended consultation meetings, hui and fono from Whangarei to Dunedin. Over 200 written submissions were received from individuals and organisations.
Implementing the strategy:
Many people are involved in implementing the Strategy, including government agencies, the private sector, voluntary and community groups and local councils.
Housing New Zealand is leading implementation of the Strategy's programme of action. This includes programmes already underway or previously committed to, as well as new initiatives.
Good progress is being made across the Strategy's seven areas of action, including:
- work on the review of the Accommodation Supplement (AS), such as completion of a review of the AS maxima
- publication of a major research project looking at the drivers of property prices
- continued expansion of the state housing stock
- collaboration and joint investment with local government and ongoing development of the Housing Innovation Fund
- expansion of the Mortgage Insurance Scheme (Welcome Home Loan) to six more lenders
- completion of the review of the Residential Tenancies Act 1986
- announcement of a licensing programme for builders, as part of continuing work to implement the Building Act 2004 and review the Building Code
- development of work programmes for the seven diverse needs groups identified in the Strategy.
