Government to spend $100 million on housing the homeless in motels
Since the alert levels were introduced in New Zealand, the Government has paid for over 1100 additional motel units for people who are living rough and homeless. The new funding now brings this total to 1600 units. Housing Minister Dr Megan Woods says the $107.6 million funds will support homeless people throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. "Finding safe accommodation for our most vulnerable people through the COVID-19 pandemic has been a key priority for the Government. "People living rough or in accommodation where social distancing was not possible were especially vulnerable to COVID-19." As of this weekend, 876 units have people and their families living in them and they're also being supported with social services, Woods says.
Of the new funding, $31 million will provide wraparound services to support these people's needs. "Many of the people living in the motels have high and complex needs and it's crucial they get support. This Government investment will provide certainty for the people and whānau living in motels and the providers supporting them during this difficult time," she says. She added work is already underway to find more permanent housing for people who have been moved to motel units during the lockdown. "As the COVID-19 restrictions are lifted, the Government's build programme and work with the construction sector will resume to bring on more housing at pace."
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Poll: Should complete designs be shared with the public, or should the community help shape the designs from the start?
The Post recently shared an opinion piece on the Harbour Crossing and why a more democratic approach might be needed 🚗🚲👟
While most decisions sit within the political arena, many organisations—like NZTA—manage long-term projects that go beyond party lines. Politics can sometimes disrupt progress, and the next Harbour Crossing is a big decision that will affect all Aucklanders.
We’d love your thoughts: Should near-complete, shovel-ready designs be shared with the public, or should the community have a hand in shaping the designs from the start?
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0% Community feedback and transparency is needed.
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0% No. This would be impossible in practice.
Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙
One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.
So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?
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59.6% Yes, supporting people is important!
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25.9% No, individuals should take responsibility
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14.5% ... It is complicated
A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!
If you multiply this number by any other number, the answer will always be the same. What number is this?
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