City Counselling w/ Julie Fairey: 25th September 2025

Auckland Council’s Policy and Planning committee met yesterday to vote on a new plan that would zone the city for two million homes, primarily around train stations and rapid bus routes. 

This plan is a response to legislation put forward by housing minister Chris Bishop which requires councils across the country to zone for higher density housing.

This plan has not been without controversy, with councillors claiming that Aucklanders are being “put to the firing squad” 

Deputy PM David Seymour has publicly disagreed with his own housing minister, arguing that suburbs like Epsom and Parnell don’t have the right infrastructure to accommodate for this growth. 

Advocates for the plan, including mayor Wayne Brown argue that the council cannot continue to drag its feet on the need for housing that is closer to the city, and is more affordable. They argue that it’s better to build in places with pipes, public transport routes and job opportunities. 

The plan passed with a majority last evening, so Producer Sanat talked to Councilor Julie Fairey about the plan change and what it means for the future of the city.