Gisborne's Housing Plan Draws Mixed ResponseGisborne District Council’s proposed zone changes to allow housing intensification have attracted divided opinions across 140 submissions. It would allow a range of housing types, such as townhouses or duplexes, to be built without resource consent in proposed medium-density residential zones, if the plans meet council guidelines. The council said the proposal would meet housing demands and prevent development from spreading on to productive land. Those in favour believed intensification would support affordability and provide a strong housing supply while making better use of existing infrastructure and creating vibrant neighbourhoods. Resident Oliver Vetter fully supported the plans in his submission because they diversified housing and kept the city compact, while protecting surrounding productive land.