Report released into community housing needs

The report that followed Kāinga Ora’s community consultation on the Hibiscus Coast in July was released last week.

Community Think ran the consultation on behalf of Kāinga Ora, with feedback to guide the creation of “a public housing development plan” for the Hibiscus and Bays area.

Unaffordable rentals and house prices, and a need for pensioner housing were among the issues raised during consultation on the Hibiscus Coast’s housing needs. 

Kainga Ora’s plan to build 37 homes in Bonair Crescent, Millwater, was also frequently raised. Last year, Kainga Ora consulted the community specifically on Bonair, receiving feedback that the majority are opposed to social housing there and want the land sold or transferred to Kiwi Build – that project is currently on hold.

In releasing the report, Kāinga Ora’s Regional director for Auckland North and West, Taina Jones, said it has provided a clearer picture of local housing needs. “While there are people who are well housed, there are others who are not, and who are experiencing real hardship,” she says. “The engagement highlights the differing perspectives in the community about public housing. Some want more of it and understand the positive difference it can make. Others are nervous about more public housing and fear it will bring change they don’t want.”

She says the organisation will now look at what role it can play in addressing local housing issues. Jones says as part of this wider piece of work, Kāinga Ora will have another look at its plans for the Bonair Crescent site in Millwater.

Kāinga Ora bought the site in 2020, and faced strong community resistance to its plans. Jones says a lot has happened since then. “The economy and property market have changed, and severe weather events led to new information about the risk posed by future severe weather events. We need to re-look at our plans for the site in that context to make sure we are investing in the right place at the right time,’’ Jones says.

A decision about Bonair is expected early next year.

The report can be found here: https://bit.ly/49RjwHk

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