Quiet Conversations, Big Impacts
This month at Property Council, our advocacy work has taken a slightly quieter but equally important path, with efforts happening largely behind the scenes.
We’ve been actively engaging with various ministers on topics that matter most to our members. With recent seismic policy changes still fresh, much of our focus has been on understanding how these changes will impact the property sector and what their implementation will look like.
Catch up on the latest from the advocacy team below:
Pushing for Build to Rent in Investment Boost Policy
In late September, following an extended campaign of engagement, we sent formal correspondence to Finance Minister Hon. Nicola Willis.
Our key request:
👉 That Build to Rent be included in the Investment Boost policy unveiled earlier this year.
This move reflects our continued efforts to support this growing asset class and its potential role in addressing housing needs.
Responding to Auckland Council’s PC78 Withdrawal
In early October, Auckland Council announced the withdrawal of Plan Change 78 with just nine days’ notice — a decision that took many by surprise.
We know how important it is that plan changes are properly notified, clearly communicated and understood by the sector.
That’s why we have acted quickly to ensure that all relevant local and central government parties are aware of the confusion and stress this sudden decision has caused.
Stay Informed: Join a Taskforce
Our National Taskforces:
- Fire and Emergency (FENZ) Funding
- Building Systems
- Resource Management System
- Build to Rent
- Environment and Sustainability
- Seismic Strengthening
- Infrastructure Funding and Financing
- Development Levies
Our Regional Taskforces:
- Auckland Local Government
- Central Local Government
- Wellington Local Government
- South Island Local Government
Want to Get Involved?
You can read more about our taskforces here or contact Bella if you’re interested in joining one. It’s a great way to make sure your voice is part of the conversation shaping our sector’s future.
Property Council Hosts ACT Party for Strategic Industry Discussion
On Tuesday 30 September, Property Council held a roundtable session between our industry leaders and members of the ACT Party Caucus. Topics discussed included: the economy, depreciation, housing, transport, infrastructure, environment and the Resource Management Act. Our roundtable events provide a valuable opportunity for members to engage directly with policymakers and highlight the key challenges and opportunities shaping the property sector.
We thank Hon. David Seymour, Parliamentary Undersecretary Simon Court and Cameron Luxton from the ACT Party team for their attendance.
Upcoming Submission: Local Government (Auckland Council) Transport Governance Bill
The Advocacy team is currently drafting an Auckland regional submission on the Local Government (Auckland Council) (Transport Governance) Amendment Bill.
This Bill proposes to reform Auckland’s transport governance by:
- Establishing the Auckland Regional Transport Committee (ARTC)
- Creating a joint oversight structure for long-term transport planning between central and local government
The Committee would be responsible for preparing a 30-year transport plan that:
- Sets Auckland’s strategic direction for land transport
- Aligns future investment priorities
Our submission will primarily focus on providing recommendations around transport decision-making needing property expertise and bipartisan support.
If you want to find out more or provide feedback, please contact Bella.
Recent submissions
Property Council recently submitted on the Regulatory Systems (Internal Affairs) Amendment Bill which looked to change FENZ levy apportionment rules for mixed-use commercial buildings. We opposed these changes. You can read this submission and others below.
- Submission on the Regulatory Systems (Internal Affairs) Amendment Bill
- Submission on the Local Government (System Improvements) Bill 2025
- Submission on the Going for Housing Growth Discussion Paper
- Submission on the Draft National Infrastructure Plan 2025
- Submission to the Ministry for the Environment on National Direction Package 3: Freshwater
- Submission to the Ministry for the Environment on National Direction Package 1: Infrastructure and Development and Package 2: Primary Sector