When only the wealthy can afford Auckland’s villas, they’ve lost most of the ‘heritage’ worth keeping – Jamie Simmonds, Coalition for More Homes

Auckland's push to increase housing density around transport hubs, known as Plan Change 120, is nearing a critical decision point. The council's governing body is scheduled to hold its final vote on July 21, determining which version of the plan will be adopted.

Jamie Simmonds, an Auckland Central resident and volunteer for the Coalition for More Homes, argues that the focus on preserving Auckland's villas is misplaced. He suggests that as these properties become increasingly unaffordable, their 'heritage' value diminishes, implying that the city should prioritize housing solutions over the preservation of exclusive, high-value homes.

The Coalition for More Homes is a lobby group advocating for solutions to the city's housing crisis. Their stance suggests a belief that the current approach to urban planning and heritage preservation may be hindering necessary development and exacerbating affordability issues in Auckland.

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When only the wealthy can afford Auckland’s villas, they’ve lost most of the ‘heritage’ worth keeping