Policies

Compare the parties’ positions on the key issues this election. Explore their policies and see how closely they align with your own views and priorities.

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Housing and planning

Local councils are responsible for land use planning under the Resource Management Act, which affects where and how new houses are constructed, as well as the design of cities and towns. In some areas, councils also provide housing to those who need it most.

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Narrow your selection by choosing a specific area within your chosen topic. Select the policies you want to explore, pick your favourites and view your results when you’re ready.

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  • Fund and operationalise the recently adopted Kerikeri Waipapa spatial plan.

  • Lead significant reform in thermal rating and glazing to reduce the cost of new builds and establish a special Northland zone.

  • Prioritise RMA reform and ongoing Building Act reform to address housing affordability.

  • Improve the consent process to increase and decrease capacity when demand requires it.

  • Create district-wide spatial planning documents to contribute to growth planning and infrastructure decision making.

  • Advocate for modernising the RMA that supports property rights while protecting the environment and heritage.

  • Deliver the Far North housing strategy with an implementation plan to grow supply, affordability and quality.

  • Grow council pensioner housing by divesting or partnering to increase stock and support the most vulnerable residents.

  • Allow residents to build and enjoy their land without interference or costly delays from council.

  • Cut red tape to make building homes faster, cheaper and free from endless council bureaucracy.

  • Ensure zoning rules and infrastructure provide enough housing to meet demand without pushing up rates.

  • Ensure that infrastructure can adequately cope with increased demand caused by population growth, focusing on affordability as a key to growth.

  • Review council housing policy so those genuinely in hardship are given the opportunity to live in housing that is safe and healthy.

  • Upgrade footpaths and street lighting in poorly serviced areas to create safer environments for users.

Get across the policies, candidates and parties

Don’t know who to vote for? Policy.nz is the complete guide to the 2025 local elections. Compare the candidates and policies to see where you stand.

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