Scoop has an Ethical Paywall
The Suburban Land Grab
2nd February 2012
The Suburban Land Grab
New Zealand is on a fast track to become a complete basket case; it is irresponsible for a government to even contemplate the selling off state land the state housing stock actually sits on.
The selling off this real estate has created a land grab, which will have massive social implications that will easily match conditions of the 1930’s for the 69,000 families desperate for affordable state accommodation. These families are living in areas of deprivation already.
How can anyone expect these families to ever pay market rents as they are forced into the private sector rental market and having to deal with Iwi Trusts, church controlled housing and charities?
Private sector rental housing is at a premium, how can these desperate families hope to compete with applicants who are prepared to pay well above the recognized market rental $600.00 plus per week. Suburban rent increases at this time are reported to be 28%.
This government must not continue down a narrow path of accelerating capital gains for the property developer whilst entrenching poverty for so many New Zealand families who truly need a state house.
ENDS
Gordon Campbell: On The Hikoi Aftermath
NZ Government: PM Marks One Year In Government
Helen Clark Foundation: Helen Clark Foundation Calls For Political Action To Reduce The Prevalence Of Junk Food And Improve Health Outcomes
Justice Committee: Further Decisions About Submissions Process For The Principles Of The Treaty Of Waitangi Bill
Infrastructure New Zealand: Single Agency Needed To Coordinate Climate Adaptation And Recovery
Free Speech Union: Fair Digital News Bargaining Bill Likely To Restrict Access To Information, Polling Shows Most Oppose
Auckland Transport: Driver Safety Screens Now Rolling Out Across Auckland’s Bus Fleet
