Political parties need to stop cherry-picking their housing policies and adopt a package of new and wide-ranging measures to help New Zealanders into their first home, the Green Party said today.
Political parties need to stop cherry-picking their housing policies and adopt a package of new and wide-ranging measures to help New Zealanders into their first home, the Green Party said today.
“Politicians need to stop pussy-footing around on housing and introduce the new and widespread measures that will address both supply and demand,” said Green Party housing spokesperson Kevin Hague.
“Other political parties are scared of getting real on this issue. The Green Party isn’t.
“We have been the lone political voice on supporting a capital gains tax.
“A capital gains tax is at the centre of our five-point plan for affordable housing, which is as follows:
1. Introduce a capital gains tax
2. Place restrictions on housing ownership by non-resident foreigners
3. Embark on a major state house building programme, with a focus on quality, affordability and progressive ownership options
4. Fast track medium-density housing around public transport corridors
5. Encourage regional economic development to shift jobs to places where there are plenty of houses and give people choice
“We also want to explore other macro-prudential tools to target the specific drivers of the Auckland housing bubble.
“Incentives to invest in property are ruining the Auckland housing market for young Kiwis who are desperate to buy their first homes.
“Political leaders need to stop tip-toeing around the issue now, and show they are on the side of these young New Zealanders, rather than property speculators.
“Investing in Auckland property is currently the biggest tax loophole we have.
“We need to close that loophole and introduce an entire reform package.
“Adopting a comprehensive housing affordability plan that address both supply and demand, with a capital gains tax at the centre of it, is the only way young Kiwis will have the chance to own their own home.
“The other political parties need to put their fears aside and get real on housing affordability,” said Mr Hague.
