Auckland’s new build going nowhere fast

Disappointingly low building consents in Auckland are further evidence the Government’s housing policy is not working, says Labour’s housing spokesperson Phil Twyford.

Dwelling consents for the year to September totalled just over 5600 in Auckland, well below the 13,000 new houses the Auckland Council says are needed annually to keep up with population growth. Mark Smith, ANZ senior economist, has commented that Auckland annual consents at 5647 were still 24 per cent below historical averages.

“Nick Smith has promised 39,000 new houses in Auckland, but the Government’s plan to increase supply seems to be going nowhere fast according to these latest figures” said Mr Twyford.

“The Government talks about increasing supply, but there are growing indications the new LVR lending restrictions are knee-capping new builds.”

Master Builders President Warwick Quinn has also indicated the lending limits could reduce new builds by up to 3000 a year. 

“Without a major increase in supply, there isn’t a show of making housing more affordable. Now more than ever the Government should adopt Labour’s Kiwibuild policy and build 100,000 affordable homes for first home buyers” said Mr Twyford.

“These figures prove beyond doubt that the Minister’s habit of turning up with media in tow to the fitting of every new door knob is not going to fool anyone into thinking the government has a credible housing policy.”

—