The good news on housing and the hard work ahead

A look at housing in the Queenstown Lakes, from record house-build numbers to affordable rentals

Housing affordability remains one of the most pressing challenges facing families across the Queenstown Lakes District. I've heard people's concerns at kitchen tables, in community halls, and on the sidelines of the sports field.

While we face significant challenges, it's essential to remember the progress we are making. The data tells a remarkable story about our district's response to housing demand. In 2024, the Otago region led New Zealand in home building per capita, with roughly 29 new homes consented per 1,000 residents – nearly five times the national average. The Queenstown Lakes was identified as the main driver for the increase in homes in Otago. Over 1,500 new homes were consented in our district last year, with only Auckland and Christchurch building more in absolute terms. This represents unprecedented growth and demonstrates our community's commitment to addressing housing supply. 

However, the numbers don't tell the complete story. While we've excelled at increasing housing supply, the challenge has been ensuring these homes serve our community's needs rather than becoming short-term accommodation or investment properties beyond local reach. That's where strategic intervention becomes crucial. 

600 new homes for locals 

This is precisely why I've been working to facilitate practical solutions. The recent announcement of the Simplicity Living development represents exactly the kind of partnership our community needs. This $500 million project will deliver 600 build-to-rent homes off Ladies Mile, designed specifically as long-term homes for local residents, 

These 1-3 bedroom apartments will feature high thermal and acoustic ratings, solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and shared facilities including work-from-home spaces. Most importantly, they're designed as genuine homes for working families and individuals who form the backbone of our community. 

The Queenstown Community Housing Trust has identified over 1,400 eligible families on its waiting list. The Simplicity development directly addresses this need while complementing QLCHT's excellent work (an organisation Council established in 2007 that continues to deliver innovative housing solutions). 

What Council can do and what we're delivering 

Working through the challenges of housing affordability and accessibility takes someone who understands the limitations and possibilities of local government. Council cannot build houses, but we can enable or impede development through planning, consenting, and strategic partnerships.  

Interestingly, on a recent visit to the Lakes District Museum, I spotted a 1974 newspaper clipping lamenting Queenstown's housing crisis, an article that could just as easily have appeared in today's news! A reminder that this isn't a new problem but that doesn't mean we should accept it as unsolvable. 

The Simplicity development represents a game-changer for our housing landscape, but it is just one piece of a larger strategy. We're continuing to work with QLCHT on additional projects, streamlining consent processes for appropriate developments, and ensuring our district plan supports diverse housing options. 

Housing remains a challenge, but it's one I'm committed to addressing through practical partnerships, strategic planning, and unwavering focus on our community's needs.