Will's Word: Can govt's new granny flat law solve housing crisis?

This is a transcript from Will’s Word on Tuesday, 18th of June.

The New Zealand government's plan to let people build granny flats up to 60 square metres without needing council approval is a smart move.

It's aimed at tackling our housing crisis by making it simpler and cheaper to create more homes. Housing costs a lot in New Zealand, especially in cities.

By cutting red tape for small units like granny flats, more people can afford to build them on their properties. This means more housing options at lower costs.

Cutting Bureaucracy: Getting council approval can be slow and expensive. By only needing an engineer's report for these smaller buildings, the government is making it quicker and cheaper to get new add ons built.

Granny flats can use existing services better, like water and electricity. This reduces the need for new infrastructure and helps keep our cities sustainable.

Some people worry this could lead to unsafe buildings or too much development. But requiring an engineer's report ensures these flats are still built safely. Plus, it helps families add extra space without moving, which is good for communities.

Overall, this move is a practical step that could make a big difference for Kiwis looking for affordable homes.

…. That’s Will’s Word…