The Government’s National Policy Statement (NPS) on urban development is good in theory, but won’t build the affordable houses Aucklanders are crying out for, the Green Party said today.
“Aucklanders need more homes now, as well as good blueprints for how to build neighbourhoods in the future,” said Green Party finance spokesperson Julie Anne Genter.
“New Zealanders are looking to the Government for solutions to the housing crisis, and all they’re seeing today is Nick Smith waving a planning document around.
“Another planning tool isn’t going to help families sleeping in cars or garages tonight.
“National is wasting time blaming Auckland Council for the housing crisis instead of getting on and building houses.
“The focus on the Council is a red herring designed to distract New Zealanders from the real causes of the housing crisis: National’s failure to stop speculators, restrict non-resident foreign buyers, or build affordable homes for people who desperately need them.
“The Green Party will introduce a capital gains tax and undertake a state-sponsored house build – both of which are more viable solutions than anything National’s offered up.
“While an NPS is broadly a good idea, we would strongly advise Nick Smith to not skirt the due process involved with introducing an NPS, or try to strong-arm the Auckland Council over its Unitary Plan.
“A Green NPS on urban development would create environmentally and people-friendly cities and towns, with plenty of affordable housing and good public transport options.
“These are the kinds of urban spaces we need in New Zealand,” said Ms Genter.
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