Driveways driven away by new rule

Hi neighbours,

A move to free up more land for new builds is likely to see fewer driveways and garages in modern housing, in a move some say could have New Zealand looking like Coronation Street.

Councils across the country must scrap planning rules that require car parks to be put down near new housing or business developments, under newly released housing guidelines.

The change comes as the Government looks to encourage development, in part by freeing up land held up by car parks, under its new National Policy Statement for urban development.

Property developer Phil Robinson said scrapping car park rules was a “big change”, but he was unsure if it was a “big win”.

What do you think of having more new builds in your area with fewer driveways and garages?

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6 days ago

Poll: Does a savoury scone require cheese on top, or folded inside?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Help settle the great kiwi debate ... cheese on top, or folded inside?

Does a savoury scone require cheese on top, or folded inside?

76.3% Inside!

76.3% Complete
23.7% On top!

23.7% Complete

1123 votes

1 hour ago

What do you think of the new Waikato racing centre proposed for Tamahere?

Libby Totton Reporter from Waikato Times

Early plans for a new 164ha base for the Waikato’s horse racing industry have been revealed, which will include space for harness racing, a retirement village, a small commercial precinct and a residential lifestyle block.

A community information day was held at the Tamahere Community Hall on Sunday where locals and other interested parties got to see early versions of the master plan for Waikato Thoroughbred Racing’s (WTR) new racing and events centre to the south of Hamilton.

What do you think of the new Waikato racing centre proposed for Tamahere? Tell us more in the comments (adding NFP if you don't want your words used in print).