It’s a question locals often ask: how many of those new housing consents actually turn into homes?

In Auckland’s case, the answer is most of them.

New data from Auckland Council shows more than 90% of consented homes are being built, with most construction starting within six months.

That’s a promising figure, especially as Auckland continues to tackle its housing shortfall.

Gary Blick, Chief Economist at Auckland Council, says the shift is clear.

Since the Auckland Unitary Plan took effect in late 2016, nearly 100,000 homes have been completed, with a strong trend toward townhouses and apartments in central locations.

“The number of homes completed jumped from 10,200 in 2018 to a record 18,100 in 2023,” Blick says.

Another 17,200 were added in 2024, with thousands more in the pipeline, 13,800 under construction and 6,400 consented but yet to begin.

While some demolitions make way for more intensive housing, around 89% of these new builds are net additions to Auckland’s housing stock.

That means more homes where people actually want to live, close to jobs, schools, shops, and transport.

For Coasties who work or travel into the city, this matters.

A better-supplied Auckland means less pressure on prices, and more chances for family or friends to find homes closer to where they need to be.

It’s one of the clearest signs yet that planning changes are making a real difference.

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