Wilson takes over new Building and Housing department

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The new Department of Building and Housing has opened, but with a new minister in charge.

Tuesday, November 2nd 2004, 8:52AM

The new Department of Building and Housing, which started on November 1, will focus on improving the delivery of building and housing services to the public.

Originally the department was to be headed by John Tamihere, but that role has passed to Commerce Minister Margaret Wilson, because Tamihere has been stood down from Cabinet duties.

"The new department recognises the importance of building, construction and housing in New Zealanders' daily lives," Housing Minister Steve Maharey and Building Issues Minister Margaret Wilson said.

"The opening of the new department coincides well with the implementation of the new Building Act. This bill is designed to help meet New Zealanders' expectations around the delivery of building services," Wilson says.

In establishing the new department the government aims to have a sector that: · delivers quality housing and buildings at a reasonable cost

• Is supported by effective regulation that clearly sets out and enforces appropriate standards, rights and obligations
• is driven by government receiving good policy advice on trends in the housing and building sector, on rental property markets and building systems and standards
• has quality dispute resolution services for home owners and builders, landlords and tenants
• ensures that landlords and tenants receive appropriate information, education and advice, and · recognises the importance of building and housing in our daily lives.

"The department will complement the role of Housing New Zealand Corporation, which focuses on housing provision and policy advice," Maharey said.

For more on the new department and what it means for property investors and landlords see the latest issue of the NZ Property Magazine which is available online here, or through bookstores and newsagents nationwide.

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