Builders across New Zealand say new figures prove just how subdued the housing market is right now and they don't think it will pick up for some time.
Statistics New Zealand says the number of new building consents, excluding apartments, has fallen by a seasonally-adjusted 4.5% in June.
Consents for new homes are almost 30% lower than the same time last year.
Certified Builders Association says people are hesitant because they are still concerned about issues like job security.
Director Brian Ludlow says builders are waiting for reconstruction work to begin in Christchurch and kick-start the market.
Mr Ludlow says when that begins, the demand for work will actually outweigh the supply.
