New Zealand First proposes infrastructure-linked housing approvals

The New Zealand First Party has announced a new policy aimed at reforming the current fast-track residential approval regime. The proposal seeks to ensure that housing developments are supported by essential infrastructure before approvals are granted.

Under the proposed changes, developers would be required to detail necessary infrastructure and demonstrate that it is funded and capable of being delivered. Local authorities would also be tasked with providing advice regarding network capacity and potential delivery risks. To oversee this, the policy suggests creating dedicated expert panels for housing with the authority to decline projects if infrastructure requirements are not met.

Additionally, the policy introduces a sunset period for existing fast-track housing projects. To prevent preferential access from becoming a perpetual entitlement, any listed project that has not lodged its application by the end of 2028 would lose its fast-track status.