6 August 2024
Media: Radio NZ
Topic: Derelict buildings
Enquiry
In the Hamilton City Council agenda for tomorrow there is discussion about the remits that will be put forward to LGNZ at its next AGM. One of them is about the deterioration of unoccupied buildings.
On page 81 at an further points throughout the report on this particular remit, it mentions that in Rotorua the problem of derelict and abandoned buildings relates to houses, not commercial buildings as in other areas. It says that Rotorua Lakes Council has spent $60,000 over five years on consultant reports and legal advice for a single, abandoned property because the council lacks the authority to require its demolition.
What is the address of that house please?
Can I speak to someone from the council about this house and any other derelict, abandoned houses that are causing issues for the council, and the remit being proposed to LGNZ.
How many houses in all are a problem for the council and how much have they cost in the past five years (not including the above property)?
As part of the remit the supporting council, Gisborne, is asking that central government provide reform on this situation including converting abandoned properties to accommodation, and I was hoping to speak to someone at the council about that, given Rotorua has a high number of emergency housing.
Please let me know who would be best able to talk to me about this.
Response
We politely declined the opportunity of an interview but sent the following written comment
From Group Manager Community and District Development – Jean-Paul Gaston:
This was an on-going matter regarding a derelict dwelling in Bellingham Crescent that we deemed to be dangerous and insanitary. Rotorua Lakes Council spent money on demolition as the property owner didn't undertake the work by the required date. The costs were then recovered through the courts. Just to clarify, dealing with derelict housing in Rotorua is rare and this was an isolated case.
Note to reporter: We couldn't provide an answer to all your questions due to the unavailability of the appropriate staff (How many houses in all are a problem for the council and how much have they cost in the past five years (not including the above property?). If you still need that information we may need to process it through the LGOIMA process as it may take some time to collate. Please let me know if you'd like me to start that process.
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Media: Rotorua Daily Post
Topic: Affordable rental housing
Enquiry
Just writing an article about affordable rentals in Rotorua and was hoping to get an update on what's happening with the Rotorua Housing Accord. Any comments council can provide about what factors may be causing the lack of affordable rentals for low to middle income earners in Rotorua and what is being done to balance out that need would be greatly appreciated.
Response
We referred the reporter to the Mayor’s office regarding the Rotorua Housing Accord and regarding questions about affordable housing market suggested contacting the Salvation Army which produces a national report on affordable housing, taking into account 24 suburbs throughout the country including, we understand, Fordlands.
