The New Zealand Government is moving forward with plans to make it easier for homeowners to build granny flats and increase the supply of affordable housing across the country .
These tiny , self-contained , detached homes - often called granny flats - could soon be constructed on properties with existing homes without building or resource consent – provided certain conditions are met .
The proposal is part of a broader initiative to address the country ’ s housing supply issues , with the Government recently seeking public consultation on the plan .
ADDRESSING THE HOUSING SHORTAGE
The rising cost of housing remains a significant concern for policymakers in New Zealand , with many Kiwis spending as much as 40 per cent of their income on rent .
Resource Management Act ( RMA ) Reform Minister Chris Bishop emphasises the urgency of the situation , stating that high housing costs place financial strain on individuals and families and hinder economic growth .
“ There ’ s a clear need to make housing affordable in New Zealand . The current cost of housing is holding us back and harming our economy ,” he says . “ This proposal to streamline the construction of granny flats is just one of the common-sense changes we ’ re implementing to make it simpler and more affordable to build homes .”
UNLOCKING OPPORTUNITIES WITH GRANNY FLATS
Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk highlights the proposed reforms as a timely response to New Zealand ’ s devolving demographic needs .
As the population ages and the number of small families increases , there ’ s a growing demand for smaller , more flexible living spaces .
The proposed changes would allow for the construction of granny flats up to 60m2 without building or resource consent , provided they adhere to specific guidelines .
“ These reforms represent a quick win for our efforts to increase housing supply and offer more flexible living options ,” he says . “ We ’ re hearing strong support from the public and builders alike , who view this as a sensible step toward addressing the housing shortage and providing more affordable housing options .”
The Government ’ s proposal is a practical solution to the housing crisis , allowing homeowners to expand their living spaces cost-effectively . By reducing the red tape around building granny flats , the Government aims to unlock new growth opportunities and create more housing options that cater to the diverse needs of New Zealand ’ s population .
As the public weighs in on the proposal , there ’ s optimism that these changes could pave the way for a more flexible , affordable , and sustainable housing market in New Zealand .
Source : Census data , Ministry of Business , Employment & Innovation
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