Work on house 'illegal'

Matt McCarten. Photo / NZPA

Mana byelection candidate Matt McCarten and his supporters are repairing a state house for a local couple who live in a garage.

But Housing NZ says Mr McCarten's actions are illegal, and the couple will be trespassing if they move into the house.

The house was one of five in the area earmarked for redevelopment, with a further 34 in Porirua in the process of being let, 3 News said.