Many MPs claim full housing allowance, some enough to buy property

The number of Members of Parliament claiming the full Wellington accommodation allowance has significantly increased, with some receiving enough to purchase property. This surge is attributed to rule changes, leading to 75% of eligible MPs now claiming the full allowance, compared to about 10% in 2009. The allowance is intended to cover costs for MPs whose homes are outside the Wellington commuting area. Notably, 30 current MPs with Wellington property interests claim the allowance, with 28 receiving the maximum amount, which can be up to $52,000 annually for ministers.