High-rise buildings will exclude people with disabilities unless rules improve reviews

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The focus on high-density housing in Auckland may result in homes that people with disabilities cannot access unless building regulations improve, critics say.

Developers will be free to build up to six stories around cities, major city centers, and train stations if a government-led initiative is approved.

But disability advocate Huhana Hickey said people with limited mobility could be excluded from entire suburbs because current regulations do not require homes to be accessible.

Chris McKeen / Stuff

Disability advocates fear that unless regulations improve, the focus on high density housing may result in housing they cannot access.

I visited my son who lives in a new building in Avondale. It’s fine, but I had to scratch my wheelchair in the hallway, Hickey said.

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The bathroom was so small that it was impossible to get me in and out so we didn’t come back.

LAWRENCE SMITH / Tips

Disability advocate Huhana Hickey said people with disabilities would be excluded from entire suburbs if development continues under deplorable rules.

Hickey is a multiple sclerosis human rights lawyer who uses a wheelchair.

She said building regulations are woefully outdated and unsuitable for people with reduced mobility.

In 30 years, with the aging of the population, we would suddenly realize that our homes are suitable for the young, the able-bodied, and that we have nothing for the elderly or disabled, she said.

Provided

Disability Rights Commissioner Paula Tesoriero wants homes to be built according to universal design principles.

The building law requires businesses and public facilities to be accessible to wheelchair users, but there are no access requirements for residential accommodation.

According to Standards New Zealand, an elevator is required for a building with four or more levels.

But Disability Rights Commissioner Paula Tesoriero said an elevator is just one part of having an accessible home.

Chris McKeen / Stuff

A national urban development policy was unveiled in June, with the aim of increasing the construction of apartments up to six floors to increase the housing stock.

If we are to respond to housing issues today and make them sustainable, we need to create the right regulatory framework and incentives for houses to be built according to universal design principles, she said.

We have talked about housing as being a crisis in recent years, but it has been at crisis levels for people with disabilities for much longer.

Universal design ensures that buildings are accessible to everyone.

MONIQUE FORD / Stuff

Building and Construction Minister Poto Williams said she recognizes the importance of improving accessibility to homes in New Zealand.

This could include wider doors and hallways, or lever handles to open doors rather than buttons.

Building and Construction Minister Poto Williams said high density housing is essential for the development of modern and affordable homes.

I also recognize the importance of improving the accessibility of New Zealand homes, and I appreciate the concerns and support for New Zealand homes to be more inclusive for our vulnerable and diverse populations, she said. .

This government recognizes that legislative changes may be necessary to incorporate elements of universal design. I asked my officials for further advice.

The National Urban Development Policy Statement will require changes to the Auckland Unit Plan and will be subject to public consultation in August 2022.

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