Why

The housing “disaster” needs all possible solutions thrown at it from all parts of our community. This wicked problem cannot be solved by the government alone. The Forever Affordable Homes method draws on international evidence and application. There are many successful models at scale in other parts of the world Aotearoa can learn from and adapt to suit our conditions.

The home grown approach of Papakāinga is a form of housing which we can learn from and draw on more widely. Forever Affordable Homes’s approach has similarities with Papakāinga. These include that land is held securely, collective decision making approaches are utilised and resources are shared.

The economically trapped have limited housing options outside the private rental market. These properties are frequently of low quality with potential health impacts for those living there, including children. The instability of renting privately often combines with occupants moving frequently. Research has shown lower literacy and numeracy rates in children experiencing housing instability.

Forever Affordable Homes (FAH) approaches development differently. It draws on collective housing options explored by Eke Panuku Development Auckland (led by then Project Manager, Imogen Schoots). An Auckland Case study was produced, from the consultancy team led by The Urban Advisory (Greer O’Donnell).

This mahi, concluded that the best way to achieve forever affordability is through transferring land into a Community Land Trust. The built form is delivered through a limited partnership. Once completed the building is owned and operated through a co-operative company structure. The consultancy team drew together a team of respected international experts. The team’s design lead was AHHA. Development management company Cooper & Associates led the feasibility.

The case study analysis was completed just as Covid dropped. Council budgets tightened, consequently only resource consented projects were progressed. The analysis revealed that the project required a partnership with the government for successful delivery. This was not considered a viable option at the time.

FAH is establishing new partnerships with a variety of different organisations to deliver secure homes that are affordable forever. These partnerships share resources, risk and rewards.

We welcome approaches from land owners. FAH offers guidance to land owners on how they can best achieve forever affordable housing outcomes with their developments.