New Zealand First will ensure any future fast-tracked housing developments are supported by the necessary infrastructure before approval is granted.
The policy will bring a suite of changes to the current fast-track regime to ensure housing developments do not create more problems than they solve.
More housing is needed but fast-track housing developments must work in with their communities first and foremost. New Zealand First will ensure that before approvals are granted for housing projects, there will be the necessary roads, pipes, water, wastewater and other essential services approvals first.
New Zealand First backs growth, backs housing, and absolutely backs getting things built. But when we brought the blueprint for fast-track to the government three years ago, we did not envisage New Zealanders picking up the tab or suffering through developments being approved without adequate infrastructure in place.
The cart is being put before the horse, and we will ensure that ends.
New Zealand First will require fast-track housing developers to detail what infrastructure they need and demonstrate whether that infrastructure exists, is funded, and can be delivered when needed. Local authorities will also be required to provide advice on network capacity and delivery risks.
The changes would also create dedicated expert panels for housing, and give them the power to decline projects if they are not satisfied the required infrastructure will be in place.
There would be a sunset period for those already listed housing projects currently enjoying preferential access to fast-track.
A listing for fast-track should not be a perpetual entitlement. If a listed project has not lodged its application by the end of 2028, it will lose its preferential access. That means any eventual application must be reassessed against contemporary infrastructure and planning realities through a referral application.
The reforms will also streamline decision-making by making the Minister for Housing responsible for housing project referral decisions.
People don't live in a world where critical infrastructure is an afterthought. They live in communities that rely on reliable roads, water, wastewater systems and transport links.
We want a system that is faster, smarter and more practical. If we are serious about housing for New Zealanders, then we must be equally serious about the pipes, roads and services that make those developments viable.
