“Budget 2021 provides the opportunity for the Government to be bold and break down barriers to development, helping New
Zealand build back better as we ramp up the COVID recovery,” says Property Council New Zealand Chief Executive Leonie
Freeman.
“Most New Zealanders just want somewhere warm, dry, and healthy to call home. For this to happen we must enable
sustainable development and create communities with supporting infrastructure and services that allow future generations
to thrive.
“The Budget 2021 is the Government’s chance to be bold and give our communities the tools we need to develop the
housing, social and economic infrastructure and facilities they need to live healthy, full lives.
“The Property Council advocates for what we think will get more done. Whether it is unlocking Build-To-Rent, reducing
costs and red tape incurred by illogical Resource Management laws or pushing for more resilience and sustainability in
new developments, we know that the Budget presents an opportunity to get the settings right to drive change.
“Our Budget Wish List is simple and focuses on five key areas:More support and resource for local councils to free up land and build more housesReform our planning laws so that the system says “yes” and embraces further sustainable developmentMake sure our tax system is fair and doesn’t place unnecessary burden on mum-and-dad landlords and developersProvide certainty and transparency around national transport and infrastructure projects with clear timelines and
committed fundingImbed incentives that help every fraction of our community to change behaviours that mitigate against climate change and
reduce our emissions.
“Tools that help incentivise local councils to make more land available for housing are critical. Whether it is
financial incentives or giving the Councils more powers to speed up consenting, it is a no-brainer to ensure there are
as few barriers as possible to consenting.
“Likewise with planning law and tax reform. Reversing interest deductibility would have a tangible effect on ensuring
mum-and-dad investors and property developers aren’t unfairly struck with extra costs that are inevitably passed on to
home buyers.
“The Infrastructure Commission’s consultation on a 30-year strategy for delivering infrastructure is timely and will
mean greater certainty and transparency for Kiwis. Ultimately though, this needs to be backed up by commitments from
government on funding, providing certainty that these projects will be delivered.
“We hope the Government and other parties will be equally as brave to suggest necessary changes to help New Zealand
build back better, stronger and more resilient.”