This paper extracts key findings from a larger research project investigating three cases studies of medium density housing in Auckland. The project investigated the efficacy of the underlying urban planning tools to deliver the compact urban form; resident perceptions of living in their medium density accommodation and the associated town centres; and understanding the price...

The focus of this paper is on the politics and significance of Plan Melbourne, with significance being most closely assessed in terms of the Plan’s ability to influence housing outcomes. The paper proceeds from my housing and governance research that led to Australia’s Unintended Cities.

Executive Summary: New Zealand’s housing market needs urgent reform. For too long, the rate of building has fallen below what is needed to keep up with household formation and demographics. It is difficult, costly, and time consuming to build a new house or dwelling. Rather than tinkering with demand-side stop-gap solutions, nominal subsidies, and bit-part...

Energy efficient houses are often thought to be a promising way to reduce our environmental footprint by using less energy and producing fewer greenhouse gas emissions. Yet, surprisingly, if you consider the whole life cycle of a house, it turns out that sometimes a new home designed to save energy can end up using more...

This paper finds that the total value of owner occupied housing commitments rose ($68m, 0.4%) in September 2013. Key points Value of dwelling commitments September 2013 compared with August 2013 The trend estimate for the total value of dwelling finance commitments excluding alterations and additions rose 0.8%. Investment housing commitments rose 1.5% and owner occupied...