Iwi housing authorities say papakāinga developments are being stalled as construction and infrastructure costs continue to climb.
In some regions, groundwork costs now exceed the value of homes, leaving projects paused despite high whānau demand.
Housing advocates say papakāinga is critical for cultural regeneration, whānau stability and economic growth – but government policy must reflect that.
One iwi spokesperson says:
“Whānau want to return home. But they can’t build without real investment.”
