Property is New Zealand’s largest industry. As a sector, we employ 10 per cent of New Zealand’s workforce and contribute over $50.2 billion to GDP. Yet embarking on even the simplest development project often feels like herding cats. If property drives our economy, how can we make development easier, more sustainable, and beneficial for all?

It’s a fact; we are a small country at the bottom of the world. Such isolation and sanctuary might look good on a postcard, but it also complicates supply chains, inflates costs for imported building products, and makes it harder to find skilled staff.

Critics might say we’re not “good” at building at scale, but affordability and scalability are complex issues tied to our unique location and population size.

Add to this, the cyclical nature of the property market and a three-year political term, and you’ve got a perfect storm of regulatory uncertainty. For developers, these shifting sands make long-term planning a high-risk endeavour.

Development: a long-term commitment

Contrary to popular belief, development doesn’t begin when the first shovel hits the ground. That’s the culmination of a lengthy process, with most projects never even reaching the construction phase. For those that do, the timelines are staggering.

The development process: At a glance

A small residential project under 20 units might take 18-21 months:

• concept design and approval: 3-4 months
• resource consent development and processing: 4 months
• contract negotiations and procurement: 3 months
• construction: 8-10 months.

Larger projects, like a 500-plus unit development, can require three years just for master planning, with staged construction taking a decade or more. Some projects span decades. Overlay this with a three-year political cycle, and the impacts of regulatory shifts become clear. Add economic hiccups, material shortages, or labour constraints, and developers face extraordinary risks with no guaranteed reward.

The key to success: certainty

We all share a vision for sustainable development that creates warm, dry homes, thriving workplaces, and opportunities for growth. But to achieve this, we need certainty.

Certainty stems from knowing the government’s long-term strategy, understanding local council growth plans, and having clarity around funding for key infrastructure projects. Shifting goalposts, such as sudden changes to seismic strengthening requirements, tinkering with tax rules or amended infrastructure planning undermine this certainty and create friction.

When certainty exists, development will follow. The private sector are often fast followers of public sector projects, as there’s nothing more certain than seeing plans come to fruition. Great alignment between public and private sectors fosters collaboration and better outcomes.

Opportunities in connection

If we connect the dots effectively, the opportunities are enormous. From creating walkable, sustainable cities to implementing new housing models like build-to-rent, we could provide more New Zealanders with secure, long-term homes. Developers can mitigate risks, and communities can enjoy infrastructure that enhances their lives.

At the Property Council, our role is to bridge the gap between the property sector and government. By consulting on proposed legislation, plans, and policies early, we encourage regulatory changes that translate to practical success.

With certainty, collaboration, and vision, we can continue to transform our built environment into one that supports thriving communities and a resilient economy.

About Property Council New Zealand

Property Council is the leading advocate for New Zealand’s largest industry - property.

We unite over 10,000 property professionals and 550+ member companies to champion reduced red tape, encourage investment, and support thriving communities.

Our diverse membership includes New Zealand’s largest commercial, industrial, and residential property owners, developers, and investors. They come together at over 70 annual events and through the DevelopU training academy, which provide professional development, exceptional networking opportunities, and access to industry-leading insights.

As a not-for-profit organisation, we’re dedicated to building a stronger future for New Zealand’s property sector.

Together, shaping cities where communities thrive.

Property Council New Zealand is the one organisation that collectively champions property. We bring together members from all corners of the property ecosystem to advocate for reduced red tape that enables development, encourages investment, and supports our communities to thrive.