Auckland to get most of new state homes

1.00pm

Auckland is going to get nearly all the 3000 new homes that Housing New Zealand will add to its stock between now and 2007, Housing Minister Steve Maharey said today.

The corporation will rent, buy or build 2406 homes in the city during that time, he said.

It was given $130 million in last week's budget to increase its stock and Mr Maharey said Auckland had worse problems than other cities.

"The Auckland region is facing a significant housing shortage due to its rapid population growth and the availability of land," he said.

"HNZC currently has 5057 applicants on its priority waiting list -- 3150 in Auckland," he said.

"The extra housing we will now be able to provide enables HNZC to better meet this demand.

"It also demonstrates the different approach of the Labour-led government to its National predecessor, who had plans to sell 19,000 houses this year."

Mr Maharey said Auckland would remain the priority area for new home acquisition because its need was greatest.

"Nearly 80 per cent -- 2406 homes -- of the 3000 homes we plan to acquire over the next three years will be in Auckland, with the remainder being spread through other priority communities," he said.

- NZPA