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Christchurch, July 3, 2016
Prime Minister John Key has today set out the next steps in the National-led Government’s comprehensive housing programme.
Speaking at the National Party’s 80th annual conference in Christchurch Mr Key reiterated National’s commitment to building more houses to meet the demands of a growing, confident and prosperous country.
“Today’s announcement of a $1 billion Housing Infrastructure Fund will ensure more houses are built faster in the areas where they are needed most,” Mr Key said.
“The contestable fund will be open to councils in high growth centres – currently Christchurch, Queenstown, Tauranga, Hamilton and Auckland – and help bring forward the new roads and water infrastructure needed for new housing where financing is a constraint.”
Mr Key said that the announcement builds on the Government’s efforts to increase the supply of houses.
“We want more houses built so first home buyers can get a foot on the property ladder, so people who work hard can reward themselves with a place they are proud to call home and so tenants have more options for good rental properties.
“And we want more built so our most vulnerable have a safe, warm and dry place to call home to help them get back on their feet and help themselves.
“The Government has the right plan in place to meet that challenge.”
Mr Key noted the progress in Christchurch since the earthquakes and reiterated the Government’s commitment to building a stronger economy which will benefit all New Zealanders.
“We are delivering on the issues that matter to New Zealanders – like jobs, health, education and opportunities for our young people.
“We are delivering on our pledge to govern for all New Zealanders, through programmes like free GP visits and prescriptions for under-13s, more elective surgeries and the first increase to benefits in 40 years.
“But the job is not done. We remain ambitious for New Zealand, we back New Zealanders to succeed and we have a comprehensive plan to help them do so.
“I can assure you we will continue working hard to build the brighter future we all want for ourselves and for our families.
“Providing we stick with our successful plan, I’m confident we can continue to deliver great things for our country.
“As I said yesterday, there is no room for complacency, no room for arrogance and no room for mediocrity.
“Our party might be 80 years old, but just like our country our best years are ahead of us.”
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Photo Caption: John Key
