Affordable housing a key issue in Whanganui’s draft Plan
Published on 14 April 2025
As part of Whanganui District Council’s draft Annual Plan 2025/26, the council is seeking community feedback on a proposal to establish a standalone housing entity.
Spokesperson for housing, Councillor Kate Joblin highlights the growing need for affordable community housing in Whanganui.
“At the moment, community demand for affordable housing is outpacing supply,” she says.
“We have an ageing population, the private market is unable to keep up, and as a council we need to work with other partners to ensure our residents and future generations have access to warm, dry homes.”
Currently, the council’s portfolio of 276 older persons’ housing units – spread across 16 complexes - is ageing, with many units no longer meeting modern standards for housing or accessibility.
The portfolio is entirely funded by rental income, with no contribution from ratepayers or central government.
To meet the forecast demand, including an increase in older people’s housing needed, the council estimates at least 1,000 new houses are required over the next 10 years. Delivering this would require an investment of around $300 million.
“The council does not have the financial capacity for this scale of investment,” says Cr. Joblin.
To achieve this, a business case recommends establishing a standalone housing entity in partnership with other organisations, ensuring Whanganui residents have access to a range of housing options across the housing continuum.
A standalone housing entity is an independent organisation focused on providing social and affordable housing in Whanganui. It may partner with private companies, government agencies or other organisations, and it would attract new revenue and capital funding to offset costs.
“By creating a standalone housing entity, the council will be better placed to maximise the delivery of modern, affordable homes for our community at the lowest possible cost.”
Throughout the consultation period, the council’s staff and elected members are visiting each of the older person’s housing complexes to explain the proposal and address any concerns from tenants.
“It is important to clarify that in the short term, nothing will change for our tenants,” says Cr. Joblin.
“If the council decides to create a standalone housing entity, further consultation will be required, specifically as and when any transfer of the portfolio (or parts of it) happen. Over time, this will mean the entity is better funded due to its ability to attract external support, ensuring tenants receive the same or improved living conditions.”
“Under this model, older person’s complexes will not become mixed social housing. Instead, homes will be warm, dry, accessible and offered at an affordable price point.”
For further information on affordable housing and Whanganui District Council’s draft Annual Plan 2025/26, please visit www.whanganui.govt.nz/annual-plan-2025-26.