10 Oct 2025: social housing
Media: Rotorua Daily Post
Topic: Social housing
Enquiry
I’m reaching out to request a comment from Mayor Tania Tapsell following a recent government announcement confirming the delivery of more than 300 new social homes in the Bay of Plenty region (Tauranga/Rotorua) by Community Housing Providers. These developments are expected to include areas such as Ngongotahā and Lynmore.
Housing Minister Chris Bishop has stated that the homes are scheduled for delivery by 2027, with over 85 per cent comprising one- or two-bedroom units aimed at addressing the region’s housing needs.
I would appreciate your response to the following questions
- What is your response to the government’s announcement and the delivery of additional social homes in your district?
- Do you believe this pipeline will adequately address the current social housing pressures facing your community?
- Will increasing the number of social homes in Rotorua address homelessness in the region, and how do you see this approach contributing to long-term solutions?
- Are you confident that local infrastructure and services can support the growth associated with these new developments?
- How will your council work with Community Housing Providers and central government to ensure the success of these projects?
Response
From Rotorua Mayor, Tania Tapsell:
"This is a great example of real results from the Rotorua Housing Plan that Council and our community developed in partnership with Government agencies. The crucial change is that Rotorua is being supported to deliver locally led solutions through our own community housing providers and I believe that will make a positive difference.
“Housing has been a core focus for our Council, which includes much needed investment in supporting infrastructure such as sewerage system upgrades and drinking water to help us manage growth and protect our environment. To ensure these solutions work both now and in the long term we assessed local need, created a future development strategy and streamlined consenting processes while focusing on providing excellent customer service and support.
“We’re proud to have delivered record numbers of homes in recent years, which has been a significant achievement and helped many working families. But we must also recognise that there are wider social issues that contribute to homelessness and we are committed to continuing to work with others to deliver both urgent and appropriate long-term solutions.
“We are very grateful that this Government is supporting Rotorua district to be a priority area for housing and backing that up with much needed support."
