The Affordable Housing for Generations Research in the Building Better Homes, Towns and Cities National Science Challenge has tackled many aspects of the conundrum of the housing crisis in this country. It has explored how housing markets and housing distribution are associated with wellbeing. It has looked at the price points at which housing is affordable. It has delved into the interaction between dwelling performance and affordability across the life cycle of dwellings. The research has considered different ways that affordable housing for low- and middle- income houses might be leveraged. Much of that research addresses issues around structural aspects of the housing system. The research component reported here, however, focuses on lived experience of those who are burdened by the insecurity of unaffordable housing.
Low-income households, especially those in the rental market who have little control over their housing costs, whether young or old, have had to confront housing costs eroding their buying power and living standards. These households have limited negotiating power around the price or conditions by which they access housing. They find themselves in a situation where they are merely price takers. Often they have to accept inadequately performing dwellings. Their access to dwellings, or even temporary accommodation, is contingent of the decisions of and conditions set by others. Moreover, those conditions frequently determine aspects of their lives which others who have affordable and secure housing can control.
This research shows the commitment of people struggling against the housing odds to make life better for themselves, their whānau and their communities. The research demonstrates how much more could be achieved through stable and affordable housing and what is at the heart of a home.
