Housing supply scrutinised

The housing needs of earthquake-affected residents are to be examined by a newly-formed Waimakariri District Council working party.

Aimed at boosting the supply of affordable housing in the district, the working party has been given the go-ahead by the council's earthquake recovery committee.

The initiative follows a sharp reduction in available rental housing and declining housing affordability.

Council earthquake recovery manager Simon Markham said uncertainty about accommodation for residential red zone residents who have yet to settle or vacate was also a concern and the council would seek advice from the working party.

It will comprise representatives from organisations with direct involvement and influence in the housing sector, as well as two council representatives, including Waimakariri Mayor David Ayers.

Mr Markham said members would be tasked with identifying and considering the scale and nature of the need for housing in the Waimakariri district now and in the future.

It would look closely at social, supported and affordable rental and home ownership sectors, as well as government initiatives in these areas and how these may affect the district.

The group would also look at successful housing business models developed by community housing providers elsewhere and make recommendations on initiatives that the council could advocate for and support with regard to providing additional affordable housing stock.

"The focus of this working group will be on providing leadership and advocacy on solutions to be found across the wider community," Mr Markham said.

"The council has a long standing involvement in providing housing for the elderly with limited means and does this at no cost to ratepayers."

Support would be provided by council staff with representation from organisations involved with housing needs and issues in the district. Mr Markham said the working party was still in the formation stage.

"We'll be doing the preparation work this side of Christmas before getting cracking on it in the new year."