First came Uber and Airbnb, now there's Slimby.

An architect is planning a new initiative to build prefab granny flats for people to rent out in their backyards.

The name Slimby stands for 'shared living in my backyard' and would see homeowners lease out land in their back garden for a minor dwelling, to help increase housing supply.

Architect Tommy Honey told Kate Hawkesby says there's currently no major disruption in long-term rental market.

"Uber disrupted the taxi industry and Airbnb has disrupted accommodation, but I wondered 'why hasn't this happened in housing?' That was my starting point."

Under Auckland's Unitary Plan, residents are allowed a minor dwelling in addition to the main house, within guidelines.