Kiwis can now build granny flats in their backyards without a building or resource consent. RMA Reform and Housing Minister Chris Bishop says the now-formalised, long-signalled reforms are a major step in the push for increased housing supply and greater flexibility for families. “It’s an exciting day for Kiwis across the country who have been […]

The Window and Glass Association (WGANZ) is urging the government to address the increasing number of non-compliant and fraudulently certified window products entering the New Zealand market. WGANZ CEO Brett Francis says it’s a serious problem that requires swift government action. “Windows are a fundamental and critical part of delivering safe, compliant, and energy-efficient homes […]

New Zealand’s Green Building Council (NZGBC) is calling for the Government to address the problem of new builds overheating. The issue means restless nights and rising indoor temperatures as we approach summer. BRANZ data from summer 2023/2024 showed 70% of people reported their homes were warmer than they wanted at least some of the time. […]

Six children’s coloured sand products prompted widespread school closures across Australia and New Zealand in November 2025 after laboratory testing detected traces of tremolite and chrysotile asbestos. By mid‑November, dozens of schools in New Zealand and over 70 in Australia’s ACT had temporarily shut, while hundreds more sought guidance from regulators. The products, rainbow sand from Educational […]

A nationwide CBS Co-op survey has found that 82% of respondents rated their local BCA as either poor or fair in terms of efficiency. 73% stated that council decisions and requirements were highly inconsistent between inspectors or regions. “Our members are telling us that delays, inconsistency, and a lack of accountability within the consenting system […]

The Insurance and Financial Services Ombudsman Scheme (IFSO Scheme) is urging consumers to make honest and accurate claims for flood damage, amid growing concern from New Zealanders about the rising impact of natural hazards on insurance affordability and accessibility. Based on responses from more than 1,000 people, 67% of respondents believe natural hazards affect their […]