Dunedin (Friday, 9 May 2025) – Mayor of Dunedin Jules Radich says a fire which burnt through homeless people’s shelters at the Oval sportsground underscores the urgent need for government action.

The fire swept through tents and a temporary wooden structure at the edge of the Oval this morning, and it was just fortunate there were no serious injuries or deaths, Mayor Radich says.

“We could have been waking up to news of a fatality, and I’m extremely relieved that isn’t the case, but this morning’s fire should put the government on notice that action is needed.

“Winter is coming, and with it the cold temperatures that will only make a bad situation worse for our homeless community.”

Mayor Radich has previously proposed using the vacant Aaron Lodge site – owned by Kāinga Ora – as an accommodation hub to help address homelessness in Dunedin.

“Regrettably that proposal has not been supported by government agencies.

“In the absence of wrap-around government action, various local social service organisations have been left to do what they can, working alongside the Dunedin City Council and other partners, to offer support for our homeless community.

“We’re fortunate to have such a joined-up approach in Dunedin, which has been delivering results, but the issues involved – like the needs of the individuals we’re trying to help – can be complex.

“The real solution here is government funding for suitable facilities that enable appropriate support services to meet a variety of needs, like we envisaged at Aaron Lodge.

“The local social agencies are ready to step up, but we need a site and we need government support.”

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