Waiting list
Housing New Zealand's rental houses are allocated to people on the basis of need, rather than how long you've been on the waiting list. Priority is given to people who can't get into and stay in housing they can afford, and housing that is safe and is big enough for them.
The length of time you have to wait depends on your circumstances, current housing situation, and if we have the right house or flat available for you.
If your need is not as great as others, it may take a while, so we may suggest you consider other housing options.
How the waiting list works
You will be placed on the waiting list if your housing need has been assessed as Priority A or B.
We will stay in contact to check that you still want, or need, a house or flat.
You also need to keep in touch with us. This is really important. If you don't respond to our calls or letters within the required time, your application will be cancelled and you will be removed from the waiting list.
We'll let you know when we find you a suitable house or flat, and will invite you to come and see it.
If you’ve been assessed as Priority C or D, you won’t go on the waiting list for a state house, but you will be offered our Options and Advice service to help you identify other housing options.
Current waiting list
As at 30 April 2013 there were 4,568 people on the waiting list. Of this:
- 1,172 were Priority Eligible - A
- 2,207 were Priority Eligible - B
- 728 were C (assessed before 30 June 2011)
- 461 were D (assessed before 30 June 2011)
Note: Since 1 July 2011, Housing New Zealand adds only Priority A and B applicants to the waiting list. This is because only Priority A and B applicants are eligible for a state house under changes to the Social Allocation System that came into effect on 1 July 2011.
Priority C and D applicants confirmed on the waiting list before 30 June 2011 remain on the list until they accept an available state house not required by any priority applicant, or they exit the list.
Waiting list breakdown by local office
If your circumstances change
If your situation changes, such as your income, family situation, or housing house or flat for you, you may want to contact rental housing suppliers, such as letting agencies. You could talk with Work and Income. They will let you know what benefits you may be entitled to, which could allow you to stay where you are, or find another home in the private rental market.
Other housing options
While you are waiting for us to find the right house or flat for you, you may want to contact rental housing suppliers, such as letting agencies. You could talk with Work and Income. They will let you know what benefits you may be entitled to, which could allow you to stay where you are, or find another home in the private rental market.
Querying your place on the list
If you disagree with our decision about your eligibility or priority for housing, you can request a review by calling us on 0800 801 601 anytime. If you're not satisfied with the outcome of our review, you can take the matter to the State Housing Appeals Authority.
