A government plan to offer cash incentives to prospective state house tenants willing to move out of Auckland highlights what little the Government has done for provinces like Hawke's Bay, Ikaroa-Rwhiti Labour MP Meka Whaitiri says.
Social Housing Minister Paula Bennett confirmed this week that the Government wants prospective tenants to consider moving to regions where dozens of state houses are vacant.
Reportedly in some cases people could be offered thousands of dollars in taxpayer sweeteners.
"We've really got to shift some of the thinking with those who are eligible for state assistance for housing," Ms Bennett said.
"And that means thinking more flexibly and looking at other areas of New Zealand that have got great employment opportunities and secure housing."