When we talk about housing, we’re not just talking about buildings — we’re talking about homes. Homes are where families grow, children learn, and communities come together.
Recently I joined the sod turning of a new housing development in Ōwairaka, part of the growing number of projects adding to Mt Albert’s housing supply. Alongside this, Ockham Residential and Simplicity Living are also building modern, affordable homes in our suburbs. Together, these projects show the momentum in the Mt Albert area to deliver more homes for families.
Across Auckland, every new development means more opportunities for people to find stability and for communities to grow. This local progress reflects a wider effort across our city, where building more homes is critical to making life more affordable for families, renters, and first-home buyers.
At the national level, the Government is also backing social and affordable housing. A newly announced loan guarantee scheme for Community Housing Providers will make it easier and cheaper for them to borrow from banks, with the Crown guaranteeing 80% of eligible loans. This scheme could support up to $900 million in lending and is already helping deliver more than 2,000 new social homes across the country.
Housing goes hand in hand with safety and peace of mind. New Zealand was recently ranked the third safest country in the world, and locally we are seeing positive trends. Since the National-led Government took office in late 2023, ram raids have dropped significantly, with a nationwide decline of around 60 percent, while violent crime has eased, with 28,000 fewer victims reported. These steps point to safer communities where families can feel secure and at home.
I am committed to listening to our community and continue to spend time meeting people and advocating for their concerns. You are always welcome to come along to my regular community clinics, stay connected through social media, or contact my office for an appointment. (Hon Melissa Lee)
National List MP based in Mt Albert
Authorised by Melissa Lee, Parliament Buildings, Wellington
MPLee@parliament.govt.nz
Hon Melissa Lee, National List MP based in Mt Albert: Housing is About Homes, Not Just Houses
