Abstract: Rapid population increase due to increasing domestic and international migration, coupled with escalating real-estate prices, has resulted in a “housing crisis” in Auckland. These challenges, in addition to efforts to curb suburban sprawl have made intensification a priority for Auckland Council. However, intensification has created tension between stakeholders, not only because of the end results, which are often considered unsatisfactory, but also because of perceived shortcomings in the process itself. This paper reports on an interview-based study of the experiences and perspectives of three stakeholder groups: developers; Auckland Council politicians and planners; and community groups/community members who are affected by new medium/high-density developments. The findings highlight a diversity of opinions regarding the intensification process, and a dominant theme of trust/distrust among the different stakeholders.