Public shares concerns about intensification at public meeting

Auckland Council is proposing changes to the Auckland Unitary Plan – the city’s rulebook for where new homes and businesses can be built. These proposed changes - known as Proposed Plan Change 120 - respond to central government direction for more housing and allow the council to strengthen its natural hazard rules.

On Tuesday 25 November there was a public meeting in Ōtara for the communities of South and East Auckland to learn more about the proposals and ask questions. It was very well attended with over 100 people turning up, including Councillors Andy Baker (Franklin), Alf Filipaina (Manukau) and Lotu Fuli (Manukau), plus local board members. It was good to have the opportunity to listen to residents of the Howick Local Board and understand their questions and concerns.

While every community is impacted differently, many of the concerns are similar. Questions were asked about the social, transport and water infrastructure required to support the intensification. Staff acknowledged these challenges and that outcome of this process (expected to conclude mid-2027) will help inform future plans and investment. It's a challenging conversation and I was impressed by the staff's willingness to respond as best they could.

It's important to remember that the requirement to increase housing capacity in Auckland has been mandated by Parliament and we can only choose where (not if) we enable more intensification.

There is another session coming up which will cover Central and East Auckland on Monday 1 Dec 06:30 pm to 08:00 pm at the Aotea Centre.

It's vital that everyone takes the opportunity to be heard, sharing their concerns and questions while there is this opportunity.

You can find out more, including how to have your say online here: https://akhaveyoursay.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/aucklands-future-housing-plan

Submissions close: Friday 19 December 2025, 5pm