Wellington's ratepayers could be asked to help cover future funding shortfalls in order to subsidise the city's social housing.
A report to the city council has said Wellington's business model for social housing was not sustainable in the long term.
When the council agreed to a 20-year upgrade programme with the last Labour government, it also agreed to provide social housing at the same level until 2037.
Community, Sport and Recreation committee chair Paul Eagle said the funding for this was now under review.
At the moment council housing was paid for with rents from tenants, but rates could subsidise a possible future funding shortfall, he said.
The matter would go out for consultation next year, Mr Eagle said.