Whanganui's Anzac Pde homeless hub closes after intimidation

The Anzac Parade freedom camping site had become a hub for wraparound support to some of the city's homeless population, but they have now moved. Photo / Bevan Conley

People staying at a homeless hub in Whanganui's Anzac Parade have moved after threats to their safety, according to the hub's organiser.

The Anzac Parade freedom camping site had become a hub for wraparound support to some of the city's homeless after the Covid-19 level 4 lockdown was announced on August 18 and had continued after levels were lifted last month.

The Ministry of Social Development (MSD) had made emergency housing available, but some homeless individuals had not been able to access it.

Whanganui Koha Shed manager Sherron Sunnex, who had taken responsibility for the oversight of the hub, said there had been intimidation towards some of the people at the site this week and another safe location had been set up for the most vulnerable while others had moved on elsewhere.

"We are working with the [Whanganui District] Council to find longer-term housing support for people," she said.

Housing and beneficiary support service The Whanganui People's Centre had received a number of requests for support since Covid-19 restrictions moved to level 2.

Manager Sharon Semple said MSD staff had been very supportive in responding to her clients' needs.

"I have to say I have nothing but praise for the way they are always willing to respond quickly to requests for support," Semple said.

"And Whanganui District Council staff have been working really hard outside of their mandate to collaborate with agencies like ours to find solutions for homelessness and address the housing shortage.

"There are many complex needs to be addressed so there are no quick or easy solutions but there is certainly a lot of work going on to find them."

Semple said multi-agency referrals are often necessary for problems such as debt, addiction, mental health, domestic abuse, previous tenancy disputes, and unaffordable rents.

"A one-size-fits-all approach doesn't help people and you need to walk beside individuals to assist them to find their own solutions. It can be a lengthy process sometimes."

A steering group made up of representatives from the community, local government and central government agencies are working to build stronger support and housing solutions in Whanganui.

The group was formed after meetings held at Whanganui Community House in July.