Phil Heatley

Wellington, May 4 NZPA - The Government will put $5 million into helping families own their homes and provide affordable accommodation for old people, Housing Minister Phil Heatley says.

The $5m will go towards two projects under the Housing Innovation Fund.

The money will help the Housing Foundation help 30 families to afford their own homes and help the Salvation Army in Mangere to provide 15 rental properties for older people.

Mr Heatley says providing affordable housing was a priority for the Government.

"These two projects demonstrate how the interaction between government, institutional investors, developers, and community housing organisations can benefit those in housing need."

The Housing Foundation project is expected to cost $12m, including $3m from the Government. The Salvation Army project is worth $4.95m, with $2m from the government fund.