Māori-Led Housing Builds Gain Momentum One Year After $200m Boost

One year on from the Government's $200 million investment to accelerate affordable rental housing for whānau Māori, hundreds of new homes are now moving from planning into delivery on the ground, Associate Housing Minister Tama Potaka says.

Since the funding was announced, 463 homes have been approved across 11 Māori-led housing projects, with 392 homes now contracted for delivery. Momentum continues to build, with more than 260 homes already progressing through consents, infrastructure works and earthworks.

"This investment was about turning aspiration into action," Mr Potaka said. "One year on, we're seeing real homes being built for whānau Māori in communities with the greatest housing need."

Homes Delivered Where Need Is Greatest

All homes funded through the programme are located in priority regions with high housing demand, including:

• Te Tai Tokerau

• Ikaroa–Rāwhiti

• Tāmaki Makaurau

• Waiariki

• Te Tai Hauāuru

• Hauraki–Waikato

By targeting these areas, the programme is increasing the supply of stable, affordable rental housing where it is needed most.

Māori-Led Delivery at the Centre

The investment is being delivered in partnership with Māori housing providers, enabling Māori organisations to lead housing development for their own whānau.

"Partnering with Māori housing providers is a practical and proven way to address housing deprivation while building long-term housing capability," Mr Potaka said.

"These organisations understand their whenua, their people and the future needs of their communities. That local leadership is critical to delivering homes that last."

All homes funded through the programme will be retained as affordable rentals for at least 25 years, ensuring the investment delivers long-term benefits for whānau and tamariki.

Large-Scale Projects Underway

The three largest programmes supported through the funding include:

• Toitū Tairāwhiti Housing Limited – 150 homes across Ikaroa–Rāwhiti

• Te Hau Ora o Ngāpuhi – 100 homes across Kaikohe

• Ngāti Whakaue Tribal Lands – 80 homes in Rotorua

Construction is underway across multiple sites, with further projects progressing through approval stages.

Fixing Shortages While Building for the Future

Mr Potaka said the progress reflects the Government's wider focus on fixing the housing system and enabling sustained supply.

"Alongside Māori-led housing, we are unlocking land, supporting infrastructure and reducing the barriers and costs that slow building down," he said.

"One year on, this progress shows what can be achieved when we focus on delivery—addressing immediate shortages while laying the foundations for long-term housing supply."

The Government says this approach will continue as it works to make it easier to build the homes New Zealand needs to support economic growth, community stability and future prosperity.