Housing First
Supporting whānau experiencing chronic homelessness
Our Housing First kaupapa is built around the belief that everyone deserves a safe, stable home as the foundation of wellbeing.
We support whānau experiencing chronic homelessness (whānau who have been homeless for at least 12 months over the last three years) by providing permanent housing first, without preconditions, and then wrapping the right support around them to address their health, wellbeing and social needs.
Our dedicated kaimahi walk alongside whānau on their journey, offering navigation, advocacy, and practical support to help sustain tenancies, strengthen connections and create pathways toward long-term stability and self-determination.
The support we offer includes:
Accommodation
We provide housing first without any preconditions, meaning that whānau are found a permanent home at the earliest opportunity.
Our kaimahi walk alongside whānau to find the right support for them - whether it is medical or mental health support, reconnecting with whānau, social or educational needs or helping to navigate complex Government systems.
Navigation support
Tenancy support
We check in with whānau regularly to ensure they are keeping up with their obligations to maintain their tenancy including making sure rent, paperwork and tenancy rules are all on track.
We help whānau plan for the future, identify their goals and aspirations and assist them to lead healthy and positive lives.
Planning for the future
Eligibility criteria
Housing First is for individuals or whānau who:
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have been sleeping rough (e.g. car, garage, shed, or on a couch) for at least 12 months over the past three years
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have high or complex support needs
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need intensive and ongoing support services to help them stay housed.
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agree to move into and maintain a home by working with kaimahi from He Herenga Kura.
There are no conditions whānau need to meet, such as sobriety or mental health treatment, to qualify for Housing First support.
How to make a referral
Referrals for Housing First come from Community Services across Te Whanganui ā Tara.
Whānau can also self-refer.
More information about our referral process is available here.