The Homelessness Insights Report finally released today shows homelessness has risen on Christopher Luxon’s watch.

“Tama Potaka took almost a month to release the report which confirms what he has been denying for over a year – that more people are living on the street since he took office,” Labour housing spokesperson Kieran McAnulty said.

“Auckland City has seen a rise of 90% in people sleeping on the streets over just eight months. Christchurch homelessness is up 73% and Wellington rough sleeping is up 23%.

“But the most significant jumps were in smaller cities. In Taranaki, homelessness increased by 250% in just six months, and Whangārei is forecast to see 1,200 reports of people who are homeless this year – in a population that is under 100,000 people.

“This report shows homelessness is no longer just a big city problem, and Christopher Luxon can no longer hide from questions about it when he travels to the regions.

“We have known homelessness has been rising since National came into government but Christopher Luxon, Chris Bishop and Tama Potaka have consistently denied it, ignoring everyone who gave them advice to the contrary.

“This rise in homelessness follows government decisions making it harder to access emergency housing. Until this week, they have refused to admit that – but now it’s clear for all to see.

“Everyone should have a safe, warm, affordable home near schools, work and healthcare. Instead, Christopher Luxon has put property speculators first, handing them nearly $3 billion in tax breaks while families sleep in cars,” Kieran McAnulty said.

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