Coast social housing issues raised in Silverdale

Unaffordable rentals and house prices, and a need for pensioner housing were among the issues raised during consultation on the Hibiscus Coast’s housing needs.

The consultation, which ends this month, is being conducted by Community Think on behalf of Kainga Ora with feedback to guide the creation of “a public housing development plan” for the Hibiscus and Bays area.

Although it is canvassing the wider issues, Kainga Ora’s plan to build 37 homes in Bonair Crescent, Millwater, was frequently raised. A year ago Kainga Ora consulted the community specifically on Bonair, receiving feedback that the majority are opposed to social housing there and want the land sold or transferred to Kiwi Build. That project is on hold, with a decision due after this consultation.

This month, three consultation events were held on the Coast. At the July 15 event in Silverdale, a group of residents, many from Millwater, gave a clear message to Community Think’s Cissy Rock that they want the Bonair land to be sold, or go to Kiwi Build for first home buyers – something Rock said would be relayed to Kainga Ora. Several residents, angry that they had no prior warning about Kainga Ora’s plans in Bonair, suggested that social housing should not go in established areas, but in new developments where it is clear from the start what it is.

“The theme of ‘informed consent’ has been heard,” Rock said. “Kainga Ora have admitted they didn’t do that well.”

The potential for anti-social behaviour, and loss of property value were other key concerns raised in relation to social housing.

Asked whether Kainga Ora is looking to purchase land elsewhere on the Coast, Rock said no decisions will be made until the consultation process is finished. Other issues raised at the meeting were a need for affordable pensioner housing, concerns that residents’ children can’t afford to buy into the area, and the lack of affordable rental homes.

The primary role of Kāinga Ora is to provide public housing, but it also administers other options to help people into home ownership. Consultation is on until the end of the month, via online survey: https:// hibiscusandbays.thinkport.nz/ Community Think’s report is expected to go to Kainga Ora at the end of next month, and Kainga Ora has confirmed that it will be made public on its website.