Joining the dots to solve Auckland’s problems

Thehomepage.nz, which is an independent non-profit initiative, has just been launched and it has the lofty goal of joining the dots to solve the problem of Auckland’s housing market.

Founder Leonie Freeman, who is a director of Goodman Property Trust, said there is currently no visible, cohesive solution with clear targets to the escalating problem.

Changing policies, finger pointing, demand, supply, and a disconnect between public and private sector players have all contributed to the situation, she said.

“We have reached a point where it is increasingly obvious that no single idea, organisation or person can solve such a complex problem.

“To solve the problem requires real leadership with a long term focus and commitment.’

In a bid to address this, Freeman’s initiative aims to define the true nature and scope of the crisis and then develop a comprehensive solution, along with a detailed plan to achieve it.

This will be done via four key steps, with step one being the identification of a vision of where Auckland wants to go and what success looks like.

The second step is to put a structure in place using a collective impact methodology, while the third step is about creating a housing framework to make sense of the problem.

Freeman said these steps will provide a structure to help make sense of all the scattered pieces of the housing jigsaw.

‘Finally, we need a resolute and unified action plan. We need to be clear and transparent about where we are going and how we can get there together.’

Freeman, who is the original creator of what has become realestate.co.nz, said the plan is strategic, detailed and logical.

It will incorporate the full range of key stakeholders – including investors who are a critical part of the equation, she said.

“Investors need to be around the table and come on this journey too. They need to be part of the solution to the problems Auckland faces.

“We all have plenty of ideas, there’s no shortage of them. The challenge is to coordinate them, bed them in and get on with the hard work.”

Adequate funding will be necessary for the success of the initiative, but the funding model going forward has yet to be determined.

Different funding models will be assessed during a six month feasibility study which Freeman is planning once she has gauged likely participation levels in the initiative over the next month.

She said this week’s launch of thehomepage.nz website was all about boosting awareness of the initiative, growing the momentum behind it and encouraging people from all sectors to get involved.

“We often look to government to solve problems but, in this case, they are not the only rower on the boat. Rather we all need to play a part and work together to achieve a solution.”