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Queenstown's Housing Crisis: Urgent Action Needed Now

1/19/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Queenstown faces a housing crisis as the 2023 Census shows over 3,480 empty dwellings, mostly owned by absentee owners.
A former World Bank economist warns urgent action is needed to protect residents.
Mayor John Glover proposes a capital gains tax on second homes.
He also proposes allocating 10% of new developments for local workers.
Without intervention, the local workforce may relocate, threatening the town's future.

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Story summary

Queenstown faces a housing crisis as the 2023 Census shows over 3,480 empty dwellings, mostly owned by absentee owners.
A former World Bank economist warns urgent action is needed to protect residents.
Mayor John Glover proposes a capital gains tax on second homes.
He also proposes allocating 10% of new developments for local workers.
Without intervention, the local workforce may relocate, threatening the town's future.