MP allays community's state housing concerns

Bay of Plenty MP Todd Muller speaking to concerned residents at Merivale Community Centre last night about the Government's plans to sell off some of its state housing stock. Photo/George Novak

The Government's plans to sell off and transfer some of the state housing stock to community social housing providers was good news for Tauranga, says MP Todd Muller.

Local residents concerned that private enterprise will start snapping up Tauranga's state houses packed out Merivale Community Centre last night at a public meeting organised by the State Housing Action Network.

In the crowd were two Merivale mothers living in cars with their children.

Speaking to an audience of about 60 to 70 people, Mr Muller said the Government's plans to sell and transfer some of its state house stock to community social housing providers was not about reducing the numbers.

"It's not about kicking people out of their homes. Selling or transferring existing tenants to social service providers is about gaining better outcomes, particularly for Tauranga.

"I think it's a fantastic opportunity for Tauranga for the Government to work with established social housing providers with a great track record who have some pretty innovative plans as part of their vision on how we can increase not only social housing but also emergency housing."

Merivale Community facilitator Harry Ormsy said his name had been on the state house waiting list for about four months after a change in his circumstances
"I know at least half a dozen people from Merivale in the same boat, and some have been waiting longer and those in existing state houses are extremely worried about their future," he said.

"I know of state houses that are empty, what is that about? No one appears to be listening."

Merivale Community facilitator Lana Taupo said she had been on the waiting list for three to four months, and her children and mokopuna were living with other whanau in the meantime.

"I know of at least two mothers in this area living in cars with their babies. If there is empty state houses why are people having to live in a car?" she said.

Also speaking at the meeting was Action Network convenor John Minto.