Move on orders for rough sleepers in CBDs, Auckland housing intensification changes, and merged Ministry for Cities, Environment, Regions & Transport w/ National MP Ryan Hamilton: 24 February 2026

Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith announced the government’s new provision for police, allowing them to issue move-on orders to rough sleepers and those displaying “disorderly behaviour” in cities throughout New Zealand.

Housing Minister Chris Bishop announced the government’s weakening of housing intensification plans in Auckland, reducing the maximum housing capacity from 2 million to 1.6 million.

The government has also taken its first step towards a new Ministry of Cities, Environment, Regions and Transport, by disestablishing the Ministry for the Environment, a process they say will make policy and planning more productive across these sectors.