12 December 2024

Housing Challenges Persist as Fiordland Housing Project Paused

As the end of 2024 is fast approaching, the Fiordland Business Association (FBA) wishes to provide an important update regarding the Fiordland Housing Project.

Despite strong community interest and dedicated efforts to address local housing needs, we regret to announce that the initiative is being placed on hold as the required minimum number of contracts has not been secured.

The Housing Project was developed to offer affordable and sustainable housing solutions for our growing community. While the response from stakeholders and the public has been encouraging, the viability of this project hinges on meeting critical thresholds to cover development costs. “While it’s disappointing to pause the Fiordland Housing Project, we remain optimistic that this initiative could be reactivated in the future, either by the FBA, local authorities, or private enterprise. Should sufficient interest be confirmed, the groundwork established so far ensures the projectwill be ready to progress swiftly.”

In the interim, we would greatly appreciate your feedback to help us better understand how housing challenges are impacting businesses in Fiordland, one year on from our last survey. Please take a moment to complete this quick survey here. Your input is invaluable in shaping future initiatives and advocacy efforts.

The FBA extends its heartfelt thanks to all those who have supported this endeavour, including community members, local businesses, and partners who share our vision of addressing Fiordland’s housing challenges. We especially acknowledge the Fiordland Museum Trust for providing the land, recognising the potential benefit the lease income would have on their aspirations for our region.

We also want to recognize and commend the efforts of private enterprises, such as Fiordland Homes, that have stepped into this space and are making great progress. Their contributions are a positive and encouraging step toward addressing the region’s housing needs.

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