News

Data indicates that building a house will likely become more expensive in 2026. Cotality’s latest Cordell Construction Cost Index (CCCI) shows residential building costs increased by 0.9% in Q4 2025. Though it’s the largest quarterly rise since Q3 2024 (1.1%), the figure remains below the long-term average of 1%, indicating stability. With a hopeful outlook, […]

Housing consents data reports have painted 2025 as a transition year. In recalibration mode after the post-COVID surge, annual figures show around 33,000 homes consented year-on-year. The sector sentiment is ‘proceed with caution’, but perhaps slow stability is welcome after the 2021 peak and 2023 freefall. National housing momentum is moving down south. Queenstown stood […]

New Zealand ranks near the bottom of developed countries for asset management, says Andy Hagan, the Infrastructure Commission’s general manager of investment. A new guidance framework aims to improve the nation’s performance. “Leaky hospitals, mouldy classrooms, and deteriorating public buildings are the visible signs of a system that has struggled to plan and invest for […]

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 […]

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 […]