Summarised by Centrist 

Gisborne Mayor Rehette Stoltz is calling on the New Zealand government to enact stronger legislation to address the city’s growing problem of derelict and empty buildings. 

Five prominent buildings have been vacant and deteriorating for nearly a decade. 

These buildings were restrained by police following the arrest and conviction of meth dealer Thomas Cheng and his tax-evading father William Cheng in 2016. 

No maintenance is expected until the case is resolved.

Stoltz’s letter to government ministers highlights the need for “urgent collaboration between local and central government” to enable earlier intervention and action. 

She argues that current laws are insufficient, as they only allow councils to act when buildings become dangerous. 

The mayor is concerned about the negative impact on surrounding businesses and the overall perception of the city. She noted vandalism, antisocial behaviour, and sanitation problems as consequences.

 “Deteriorating conditions negatively impact surrounding businesses and perceptions of the city centre, affecting a decline in economic activity,” she said. 

Citing examples from the UK, Ireland, and Canada, Stoltz urges for similar legislative powers to compel building owners to remediate their properties.

Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ) may push the issue following their AGM. Minister for Building and Construction Chris Penk acknowledged Stoltz’s concerns and is actively exploring options, including a review of earthquake-prone buildings. 

Stoltz hopes these changes will prevent buildings from remaining “idle and unproductive” and help rejuvenate Gisborne’s city centre.

Read more over at Stuff
_{Image: Ulrich Lange, Bochum, Germany}