Star Flats

Star Flats (so-called because of their butterfly roof and cross-like shape when seen from above) refers to a form of medium-density state housing in New Zealand.

In the 1950s, the Government became increasingly concerned with issues stemming from New Zealand's rapidly expanding cities, including the loss of good farm land and the growing pressures on urban infrastructure.

Academics and architects noted that the current state housing scheme was partly to blame for this, as it generally promoted the creation of low-density suburban developments.

[6] Large sliding doors in the living area made it possible to open up the room so that it felt like a sunny balcony or outdoor space, with a balustrade protecting the occupants.

[10] Other blocks have left the state housing portfolio and been sold to private owners, for instance at Freeman's Bay in Auckland.