One of many measures that was undertaken by the First Labour Government was the launch of a state housing scheme to provide every New Zealander with a home that, in Walter Nash’s words, would be “fit for a cabinet minister”.

Although single-unit dwellings had been preferred, the government felt that the housing problem was of such magnitude that every approach should be encouraged, and that advances in multi-unit complexes were such that they had become more socially acceptable.

[6] The location of the flats, a short tram ride from Courtenay Place,[6] was intended to give convenient access to the tenants’ workplaces, and reduce urban sprawl.

The scheme consisted of 48 one-, two- or three-bedroom units and 11 garages, planned to maximise open spaces.

Particular attention was paid to maximizing sunlight, with the buildings on the northern side being limited to one storey, living rooms built to the sun, windows as large as practicable and balconies included in all units above ground level.