MP: Give NZers housing priority over immigrants

Photo / Brett Phibbs

A New Zealand First MP wants state housing prioritised for New Zealanders, leaving immigrants to wait their turn.

Pita Paraone is concerned there has been an increase of more than 20 per cent over the past six years in the number of state houses being granted to people who are not New Zealand citizens.

He said 7,000 state houses have been allocated to immigrants, while thousands of New Zealanders languish on Housing New Zealand waiting lists.

Mr Paraone wants a rule requiring immigrants to have the resources to buy their own homes when they come to New Zealand.

He said the government must act urgently to ensure needy New Zealanders get priority over newcomers.

New Zealand First has also recently attacked immigrants' influence on the property market, saying foreigners are driving up prices and keeping New Zealanders out of the market.

- NEWSTALK ZB