Pre-Election Report: Housing Growth and Housing Demand

Published on 01 October 2025

A more detailed version of this release is available in Waitaki District Council’s Pre-Election Report.

More people are moving to our area, so we need more houses. The 2023 Census showed that our population is growing, getting older, and becoming more diverse. This means we need different types of houses now and in the future.

The Council has to make sure new houses follow the rules set by the government. People expect the Council to do more with less money. In 2023, the average rent took up 20.5% of household income in Waitaki, and in 2024, it was around 20.3%.

Housing is becoming a big issue. While homes in Waitaki are still cheaper than in many other parts of New Zealand, property values have gone up by 24% in recent years. This makes it harder for people to buy or rent homes.

Stricter bank lending, rising building costs, and shortages of materials are making it harder for people to get mortgages or find rental homes.

To tackle these housing issues, the Council is taking action. In 2022, it approved the Healthy Homes for All strategy. This plan aims to make sure people in Waitaki have access to warm, affordable homes in strong, connected communities.

The Council is working with its partners on short-term steps to support people's wellbeing and longer-term plans to increase the number of community, affordable, and social homes in the district.

ENDS

media@waitaki.govt.nz