22 take up offer to move from city
Less than two dozen people have taken up the Government’s $5000 offer to relocate from Auckland.
The initiative began last month and is aimed at people on the waiting list for social housing in the city.
It covers the costs of moving, bond, or advance rental fees in other regions where housing is available.
Updated figures released by Social Housing Minister Paula Bennett reveal 12 applicants had received the grant, with $54,508 paid out. The 12 people were supporting 32 others.
In addition funding had been approved to a further 10 applicants, supporting 20 people.
Of the people who have moved, half are now living in private accommodation while six others have moved into social housing.
One was homeless and four were in emergency housing in Auckland before moving.
The 12 have spread out across the country, including homes in Invercargill, Rotorua, Tokoroa and Tawa.
Bennett said it was early days but it was pleasing to see people taking up the offer of help.
‘‘This policy isn’t about the numbers though. These are real people and I am glad we can support them into more stable housing that suits their needs.’’
The grant had been introduced to remove the cost barrier for people who wanted to move to cheaper regions where they had support networks but could not afford it.
It was not suitable for everyone, but one initiative being offered to help people in a ‘‘very tight’’ housing market, she said.
‘‘One successful applicant has happily made the move to Invercargill. She had been living with her sister but was asked to leave and ended up in her car.
‘‘While talking with Housing New Zealand about support in Auckland, it was identified that she had extended family support in Southland and she asked for help to move.’’