Data collected by organisations to measure homelessness in Tāmaki Makaurau, and collated by Auckland Council, is showing another jump in the number of people now living without shelter.
The latest figures, which are collected by support services the council works with to try and eradicate homelessness in the region, has been shared this week in an update to the council’s Community Committee.
It has revealed a 90 per cent increase in homelessness since September 2024.
Committee chair, Councillor Angela Dalton, says no one deserves to be living in extreme hardship every day and yet, the numbers continue to trend upwards.
“It is heartbreaking to hear that even more people are battling to survive out in the cold, under extreme hardship and without the basic essentials,” Cr Dalton says.
“The figures reflect a concerning trend, and the response is one the council cannot solve alone. The need for social housing in Auckland continues to grow, and it is clear that demand has exceeded supply.
“We need a co-ordinated central, local government and non-government response to turn the tide.”
The Community Committee is asking the central government to look more closely at the scope of homelessness needs, and to work directly with frontline agencies to address a growing demand for urgent support.
In January this year, around 650 people were identified as homeless, up from 426 in September 2024. By May, that number had surpassed 800.
Deputy chair Councillor Julie Fairey says it is particularly worrying to learn from further research that more women are facing homelessness and safe housing for them is limited.
“Women are particularly vulnerable – both living without shelter and in temporary housing. The few lodges and boarding houses that have room are just not enough to keep women safe,” says Cr Fairey.
Head of Community Impact Dickie Humphries says, sadly, the increasing homeless numbers don’t include anyone who is hidden, couch surfing, or living in over-crowded situations.
Council staff continue to coordinate response work across outreach providers, police, compliance wardens and central government departments in an ongoing effort to help all those in need.
The council has committed a total of $1.5 million over three years to support homelessness initiatives as part of its Long-Term Plan 2024-2034.
“The council can’t solve the issues alone. We are working with a network of experts and will continue to lead a co-ordinating role, in a regionwide effort to get ongoing effective support available on the ground,” says Dickie.
