No rush for $5000 lure

Fewer than two dozen people have taken up the Government’s $5000 offer to relocate from Auckland.

The initiative began last month for 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 reveal 12 applicants had received the grant, with $54,508 paid out.

The 12 people were supporting 32 others.

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 Wellington. Social Housing Minister Paula 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 was 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 was one initiative being offered to help people in a ‘‘very tight’’ housing market, Bennett said.