Just over a year ago, 121 clients were on the waiting list for social housing in Napier. On March 31 this year, the number had climbed to 135.
They represent the tip of the iceberg, as many in need of affordable housing do not qualify to go on this list.
Some already in state houses face future eviction as their three-yearly reviews will show that they don't meet the new, strict criteria.
With 93 state houses removed from Maraenui over the last four years, and the Government not planning to build any more in Napier, the onus has been on social housing providers or developers to buy the empty sections and build affordable homes on them.
No subsidies are available to build social housing, the returns are not attractive for developers, so we are left with a severely limited range of options for low income tenants in our city.
Napier is not a rich town. Despite the glittery attractions, the cafes and first class accommodation, there is a significant underbelly of poverty and deprivation that adversely affects the well being of many of our citizens and their children.
Of all 65 Parliamentary electorates, the median income of the Napier electorate sees us right down in the lowest quartile.
Homelessness and poverty in our city has been highlighted by the tireless work of Kevin and Kiri Swannell, with their Soup Truck feeding over 50 people every week.
Their hopes for an emergency shelter (for families who are not the "rough sleepers" but those in "Mary's" situation) have been affected by the government's inadequate social housing policy.
There is no shortage of clients who would benefit from their shelter, but virtually nowhere for them to go after Kiri and Kevin help them get on their feet.
Central government has created this problem, and it is their responsibility to fix it.
We need a single agency responsible for finding accommodation for those currently being passed like a football between agencies and services.
More state houses must be built to replace those lost. Social housing providers need resources to fill the gap. The eligibility criteria for income related rents must be widened.
Most of all, there needs to be a national strategy led by central government in partnership with local government and non-governmental organisations to provide sufficient adequate, affordable housing to those currently unable to find it.
The severe housing deprivation being experienced by an increasing number of Kiwis across the country must be a top government priority.
- Maxine Boag is a Napier City Councillor representing the Nelson Park Ward.
- Views expressed here are the writer's opinion and not the newspaper's. Email: editor@hbtoday.co.nz
