Does higher density housing enhance liveability? Case studies of housing intensification in Auckland

Abstract

Larger cities in Australia and New Zealand have urban consolidation policies promoting higher-density development, justified on the grounds of enhancing urban sustainability. Despite evidence for persistent preferences for lower density, there has been a significant increase in the supply of higher-density housing over recent years. More recent iterations of urban growth management policies, however, are now justified on the grounds that higher-density will result in enhanced “liveability”. Reflecting on research findings from case studies of residents in medium density housing in Auckland, this paper examines the extent to which liveability is being enhanced in intensified suburban contexts. Using resident expressions of housing satisfaction as an indicator of liveability, the findings point to some positive outcomes. However, despite these perceptions, future housing aspirations tend to remain oriented to detached housing and lower densities, which raises policy issues for the promotion and management of urban consolidation and higher densities.