Auckland's population is growing year on year, driven by natural increase as well as by migration from overseas as well as other parts of New Zealand. Population projections suggest that the city's population could reach 2 million by 2031. 

In her presentation to architectural professionals, Alison Reid – a Senior Researcher at Auckland Council – outlined the key trends from the 2013 census relating to Auckland's population and housing.

Over 150 ethnicities were recorded at the 2013 Census, featuring a majority, but ageing, European population and extremely youthful Asian and pacific populations. The city now includes several so-called 'ethnoburbs' or areas with high numbers of a particular nationality.  Examples include the British and Irish 'coast-huggers', tending towards the east and bays while Auckland's Indian community is centred in the southwest, mainly around Papatoetoe. Alison also highlighted that while Auckland is home to some of the most socio-economically advantaged communities in New Zealand, it is also home to some of the most disadvantaged, as according to the 2013 NZ Deprivation Index.

A surprising 48% of households in Auckland comprise one or two persons.  At the other end of the scale, over 8,000 households have eight or more residents per household.

All of these factors underpin the future requirement for a range of innovative and quality housing solutions, that will cater for a range of household sizes and requirements.