New research from the Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG) has found that rising housing costs and a shrinking supply of affordable rental homes are leaving tens of thousands of New Zealand families struggling to afford even the basics of daily life.
The findings come from two new studies by housing researcher Greg Waite, which examine private rental affordability and changes in the availability of affordable rental housing across Aotearoa.
The research paints a concerning picture of the pressure facing low-income households, with only 12 percent of households relying on a full adult-rate benefit while out of work having enough income to cover both rent and a basic standard of living.
The studies also highlight that housing affordability is no longer an issue confined to people receiving income support. More than 70,000 working households renting privately earn less than the equivalent of the full-time minimum wage per adult, and the majority receive no government benefit. Of those households, around two-thirds are unable to meet both rental costs and essential living expenses.
Single-parent families are among those under the greatest financial strain, with almost six in ten unable to afford a basic standard of living once rent has been paid.
The second report reveals that the supply of affordable rental homes has declined significantly between 2015 and 2024, reducing housing options for families already under financial pressure.
Some of the steepest declines have occurred in the Bay of Plenty, Manawatū-Whanganui, Hawke’s Bay, Southland, Northland and Gisborne, where the number of affordable rental properties has fallen by as much as 40 percent.
Researchers say the combination of rising rents and fewer affordable homes is creating a structural challenge that is affecting both beneficiaries and working families, making it increasingly difficult for households to pay for essentials such as food, transport, healthcare and education.
CPAG says secure and affordable housing is fundamental to children’s wellbeing, arguing that financial pressure caused by excessive housing costs limits opportunities for children to participate fully in school, community life and healthy development.
The organisation is calling for policies that address both housing affordability and household incomes, ensuring families have enough money left after paying rent to meet their everyday needs.
The reports are the first in a six-part research series examining rental affordability, housing supply, working poverty and housing policy, with further findings expected to contribute to the national debate over housing and child poverty ahead of the General Election.
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