Christchurch Homeless Community Relocates After Council Notice

A group of approximately ten homeless individuals living on the grounds of Holy Trinity Avonside in Christchurch has been forced to relocate after the Christchurch City Council issued an abatement notice. This notice, which was prompted by multiple complaints, required the church grounds to cease functioning as a campground. The group left the site on December 7, 2023, as they complied with the council’s directive.

Community worker Iain MacInnes expressed his deep concern over the situation, stating that the forced relocation is disheartening. “It’s heart-breaking because there’s no way for us to signpost them to say, ‘This is a good, safe place,'” he explained. MacInnes emphasized the vulnerability of some individuals within the group, highlighting the presence of women and members of the rainbow community, who may face additional risks in certain environments.

Challenges in Finding Alternative Housing

MacInnes noted that while the church had previously served as an intermediary between the homeless individuals and various support agencies, including Comcare and Housing First, finding immediate housing solutions remains a significant challenge. “These things take time,” he stated, acknowledging that the group is now back on the housing register but uncertain about their next steps.

He revealed that there had been discussions about a potential alternative location for the group, but existing inhabitants of that site were opposed to additional people moving in. This uncertainty only complicates an already difficult situation, as options for safe accommodation are limited.

In an effort to address these ongoing challenges, a new charitable trust named Te Puna Ora is being established, with plans to engage with the homeless community by mid-2026, contingent on securing adequate funding. MacInnes highlighted the importance of this initiative in fostering better support for individuals experiencing homelessness.

Council’s Response and Future Strategies

A spokesperson for the Christchurch City Council confirmed that the abatement notice had been extended to allow time for alternative housing solutions to be identified. The council is collaborating with social service agencies, including the City Mission, to facilitate this process. “Our focus is to support social service agencies in finding safe accommodation and support options for those affected,” the spokesperson stated.

Despite the challenges, the council clarified that it has not directed individuals on where to go after leaving the site, stressing the need for a comprehensive city-wide strategy to tackle homelessness. This strategy is currently in the early stages of development.

Holy Trinity Avonside opted not to pursue a resource consent to convert its car park into a designated camping ground, further highlighting the complexities surrounding the issue of homelessness in the city.

The situation remains fluid, as community workers and local authorities work together to find sustainable solutions for those affected by the recent changes. As the winter months approach, the urgency to provide safe accommodation for vulnerable individuals continues to grow.