Q: How does Housing New Zealand support community housing?

A: Our Community Group Housing programme provides rental homes for community groups that provide residential services. We also work with particular communities through our Community Renewal programme, which involves the physical redevelopment of Housing New Zealand properties in those areas, as well as community building initiatives.

We also support the growth of more community-based housing through the Housing Innovation Fund. Community organisations can apply to the Fund for development grants to help them improve their capacity to provide social housing, and loans for new housing projects.

Q: How does Housing New Zealand work with local councils?

A: We work with several local councils at a strategic level. For example, we are working with Auckland councils on the Auckland Growth Strategy. We also work with councils through our development and redevelopment programmes.

We provide advice and support to councils preparing applications to the Housing Innovation Fund, and work alongside those whose proposals are accepted. We also work with local authorities in times of crisis, for example as part of an all-of-government response to natural disasters such as floods.

Q: Can communities have their say on Housing New Zealand projects in their area?

A: If one of our projects - such as a new development - affects people living in the surrounding area we will let residents know. Communication is usually via a letter, but we may also talk to immediate neighbours in person. Whether or not we consult is often based on the type of work planned, and whether there are any resource consent issues.

Q: How does Housing New Zealand support rural communities?

A: Rural Housing in Northland, East Coast, the Bay of Plenty and other selected areas aims to eradicate substandard housing in these areas. Rural Housing tackles substandard housing in many ways, such as providing loans for housing repairs, undertaking housing redevelopment work and improving water supplies.