Queenstown council throws out affordable housing levy

Queenstown council throws out affordable housing levy
The Queenstown Lakes District Council proposed charging developers 5% to help provide affordable houses. (Image: NZME)
Maria Slade
Queenstown has voted against becoming the first council in the country to require developers to contribute to affordable housing.The Queenstown Lakes District Council had proposed charging a 5% fee on new subdivisions, either money or land, to help deliver more affordable homes in its pricey property market.Community groups have long advocated for the mechanism known as inclusionary housing.However, the council voted on Thursday to withdraw the proposed variation to its district plan.It followed the recommendations of an independent hearing pan...

More Infrastructure

Port of Auckland becomes first fast-track winner
Infrastructure

Port of Auckland becomes first fast-track winner

An expert panel has issued a draft decision approving a major infrastructure project.

Oliver Lewis 02 Aug 2025
Mass timber offices approved, gravel pit 'goneburger'
Infrastructure

Mass timber offices approved, gravel pit 'goneburger'

The planned $100m development became a flashpoint for critics of the RMA.

Oliver Lewis 01 Aug 2025
Government-provided house insurance could be ‘inevitable’
Infrastructure

Government-provided house insurance could be ‘inevitable’

Any government support after insurance retreat must very limited, climate expert says.

Greg Hurrell 01 Aug 2025
Want to double exports? Good luck with that
Primary Sector

Want to double exports? Good luck with that

International shipping lines say NZ needs to urgently address port productivity. 

Oliver Lewis 30 Jul 2025