Auckland Retailers Demand Action on Homelessness Crisis

A report released by the Heart of the City business association has revealed significant concerns among Auckland’s retailers regarding the impact of homelessness on their operations. The survey, conducted in late September 2023, indicated that 91% of business owners identified rough sleeping and begging as detrimental to their financial success. Furthermore, 81% of respondents expressed that the state of the city centre was inadequate for attracting more visitors and investment.

The survey encompassed 102 business owners in and around the Queen Street valley area, highlighting a long-standing issue that has intensified in recent years. According to Viv Beck, Chief Executive of Heart of the City, the situation has worsened since the Labour government converted inner-city hotels and motels into emergency housing during the COVID-19 pandemic. Beck noted that many individuals who took up residence in these accommodations have since remained in the area, contributing to a visible homelessness crisis.

In her comments, Beck reflected on a time when the presence of a few homeless individuals in neighborhoods like Ponsonby felt manageable. She recalled knowing those who were part of the community, fostering a sense of familiarity and empathy. However, she also acknowledged that the current increase in homelessness has led to a shift in perception. “When you are swamped with people in need… inevitably you will start to take a tougher stance,” Beck stated, underlining the frustration felt by many retailers.

The issue has resurfaced in public discourse, particularly after Labour indicated a potential ban on rough sleeping in the city. During a recent interview with Mike Hosking, Beck emphasized the necessity for change, stating that simply relocating homeless individuals is not a viable long-term solution. “We need a game changer,” she asserted, advocating for effective solutions that prioritize vulnerable populations while addressing the concerns of business owners.

Beck’s comments reflect a growing sentiment among retailers who argue that the visible presence of homelessness is detrimental to their businesses. She pointed out that while many retailers may be sympathetic to those seeking shelter, the accompanying issues—such as public disorder, sanitation concerns, and aggressive behavior—pose significant challenges.

During the interview, Beck responded to questions about the reluctance of politicians to take decisive action. “The cold hard truth of homelessness is that it ruins central cities, and we need to clean it up and clear it out,” she said, advocating for a more straightforward approach to the issue.

Retailers, including hairdressers, café owners, and clothing retailers in Queen Street, have expressed frustration at the ongoing situation. Many feel overwhelmed by the responsibility of caring for individuals in dire circumstances while attempting to maintain their businesses. “They’re dispersed throughout the community,” Beck remarked, suggesting that a more distributed approach to homelessness might foster a sense of community engagement rather than isolation.

The debate surrounding homelessness is ongoing, with political figures such as Mark Mitchell and Ginny Anderson weighing in on the complexities of the issue. Mitchell highlighted the importance of providing safe spaces for vulnerable individuals, while Anderson questioned the practicality of enforcing a ban on rough sleeping.

As Auckland grapples with this multifaceted challenge, the potential for policy change remains a crucial topic. Beck emphasized the need for constructive dialogue and bold action to address the underlying issues causing homelessness. “We cannot leave it the way it is,” she warned, urging for a comprehensive approach that balances compassion with the realities faced by businesses in the city centre.

With the upcoming elections, the urgency for a resolution to homelessness in Auckland’s urban areas continues to grow. The voices of retailers, alongside the experiences of those affected by homelessness, will play a vital role in shaping future policies that aim to create a safer and more inclusive city.