Minister must ensure tenants get a fair go

Housing Minister Phil Heatley must ensure that the 130 tenants who have received relocation notices from Housing New Zealand flats on the Terrace will be given adequate time to find appropriate accommodation, Wellington Central MP Grant Robertson says.

"Seven days is simply not long enough to find appropriate housing for all the tenants.

“It is clear tenants do need to move out. I am aware safety precautions are being undertaken at the flats. This is sensible and should allow flexibility with the amount of time before people are moved. I have written to the Minister asking him to make sure that there are flexible arrangements for moving.

“I have also expressed my concern to Housing New Zealand that moving too quickly may see people put into inappropriate housing,” Grant Robertson said.

“I have had contact from tenants and their families very worried about their future.  Many of the tenants have complex needs and will find it extremely difficult if they are moved out of the city where their services and support networks are.

“My office and I have been in contact with the local school and support agencies who work with refugees and vulnerable residents to help identify those with high needs. For many staying in Wellington city will be important to their well-being.

“For those who are moved outside of the city, I am looking for an assurance from the Minister that the costs of health and other essential services will be met.

“This situation has highlighted the folly of the government removing the social housing mandate from Housing New Zealand. Given the fragile existence of some tenants, it is clear that HNZ should not just be landlords.

“The agency has a tough job ahead of it, and I congratulate the staff on the ground for their hard work.

“The situation has highlighted the lack of social housing in the Wellington city area, which is an issue that must be addressed. Minister Heatley must ensure that all tenants get a fair go, and are looked after at this very stressful time.