Hon Dr Nick Smith

Our housing plan is gaining momentum

Last week new figures confirmed that building consents have reached a six-year high. Consents are up 21 per cent nationwide, 31 per cent in Auckland, and 89 per cent in Christchurch.

These figures show that our plan to increase housing supply is gaining momentum, particularly in Auckland and Christchurch where it is needed most. We are:

• Freeing up land supply
• Reducing building material costs
• Reining in development contributions
• Cutting compliance costs
• Investing in skills and productivity in the construction sector

But we need to keep our foot on the accelerator. Next year we will introduce further reforms to the Resource Management Act to support this momentum, and the HomeStart scheme for first home buyers will begin in April.

National knows that there is no quick fix to the housing challenge. Improving housing supply and affordability requires action on many fronts.

Read more about our plan to help first home buyers here.

ENDS

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