Tauranga

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Housing Assistance

Support for finding affordable and appropriate accommodation for newcomers.

Sections

1. Types of Housing Assistance Available in Tauranga

In Tauranga, housing assistance is primarily provided through government programs, non-profit organizations, and local community initiatives. Here are the main types of support available:

A. Public Housing (State Housing)

  • Description: Public housing is provided by Kāinga Ora – Homes and Communities (formerly Housing New Zealand) and community housing providers. These homes are rented to eligible individuals and families at an income-related rent (IRR), which is typically 25% of your income.
  • Purpose: To provide affordable housing for low-income individuals and families who cannot afford private rentals.

B. Accommodation Supplement

  • Description: A weekly payment from Work and Income (WINZ) to help low- and middle-income individuals and families with their rent, board, or mortgage payments.
  • Purpose: To assist with housing costs for those in private rentals or boarding situations.

C. Emergency Housing Special Needs Grant

  • Description: A temporary grant provided by Work and Income to cover short-term accommodation costs for people who are homeless or in urgent need of housing.
  • Purpose: To provide immediate housing support while longer-term solutions are sought.

D. Transitional Housing

  • Description: Short-term housing provided by Kāinga Ora or community housing providers, combined with support services to help individuals and families transition to long-term housing.
  • Purpose: To provide stability and support for people in crisis.

E. Community Housing Providers

  • Description: Non-profit organizations that provide affordable rental housing and support services. Examples in Tauranga include Accessible Properties and Habitat for Humanity.
  • Purpose: To offer affordable housing options for those who may not qualify for public housing but still need assistance.

F. First Home Grants and Loans

  • Description: Financial assistance for first-time homebuyers, including the First Home Grant and First Home Loan, provided by Kāinga Ora.
  • Purpose: To help individuals and families purchase their first home.

2. Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility for housing assistance in Tauranga depends on the type of support you are seeking. Below are the general criteria for each program:

A. Public Housing

  • Must be a New Zealand citizen, permanent resident, or hold a qualifying visa.
  • Must have a low income and limited assets.
  • Must have a serious housing need (e.g., overcrowding, homelessness, unsafe living conditions).
  • Applications are assessed using the Social Allocation System, which prioritizes those with the greatest need.

B. Accommodation Supplement

  • Must be a New Zealand citizen, permanent resident, or hold a qualifying visa.
  • Must meet income and asset limits (varies based on household size and location).
  • Must be paying rent, board, or mortgage costs.

C. Emergency Housing Special Needs Grant

  • Must be in urgent need of housing (e.g., homeless or at risk of homelessness).
  • Must have no other housing options available.
  • Must meet income and asset limits.

D. Transitional Housing

  • Must be referred by Work and Income or a community organization.
  • Must be in urgent need of housing and willing to engage with support services.

E. First Home Grants and Loans

  • Must be a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident.
  • Must have been contributing to KiwiSaver for at least three years.
  • Must meet income and house price caps (varies by region).

3. Typical Costs Involved

The costs associated with housing assistance vary depending on the type of support:

  • Public Housing: Rent is income-related and typically set at 25% of your income.
  • Accommodation Supplement: The amount you receive depends on your income, assets, and housing costs. You may still need to cover a portion of your rent or mortgage.
  • Emergency Housing: The grant covers the full cost of temporary accommodation, but you may need to repay it in some cases.
  • Transitional Housing: Rent is typically set at 25% of your income, similar to public housing.
  • First Home Grants and Loans: Grants of up to NZD $10,000 per person are available, and loans require a 5% deposit.

4. Application Procedures

A. Public Housing

  1. Contact Work and Income to discuss your situation and register for housing assistance.
  2. Complete the application form and provide supporting documents (e.g., proof of income, ID, tenancy agreements).
  3. Your application will be assessed, and you will be placed on the Social Housing Register if eligible.
  4. Wait for a suitable property to become available.

B. Accommodation Supplement

  1. Apply online through the Work and Income website or visit a local office.
  2. Provide proof of income, assets, and housing costs (e.g., tenancy agreement, mortgage statement).
  3. Your application will be assessed, and payments will be made directly to your bank account.

C. Emergency Housing Special Needs Grant

  1. Contact Work and Income immediately to discuss your situation.
  2. Provide proof of your housing emergency (e.g., eviction notice, unsafe living conditions).
  3. If approved, Work and Income will arrange temporary accommodation for you.

D. Transitional Housing

  1. Work and Income or a community organization will refer you to a transitional housing provider.
  2. You will meet with the provider to discuss your needs and sign a tenancy agreement.
  3. Engage with support services to work towards long-term housing.

E. First Home Grants and Loans

  1. Apply for the First Home Grant through Kāinga Ora’s website.
  2. Provide proof of KiwiSaver contributions, income, and house price details.
  3. If approved, the grant will be paid directly to your solicitor before settlement.

5. Local Factors and Resources

A. Housing Market in Tauranga

  • Tauranga has experienced significant growth, leading to high demand for housing and rising rental prices. Be prepared for competition in the private rental market.
  • Average weekly rent for a 2-3 bedroom home in Tauranga is around NZD $550–$650, depending on the location.

B. Community Organizations

  • Accessible Properties: A major provider of affordable housing in Tauranga.
  • Habitat for Humanity: Offers affordable housing and home repair programs.
  • Tauranga Moana Night Shelter: Provides emergency accommodation for homeless men.

C. Cultural Considerations

  • Tauranga has a strong Māori cultural presence. Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially if you are living in areas with significant Māori communities.
  • Community support networks are strong in Tauranga, so don’t hesitate to reach out for help.

D. Transportation

  • Tauranga is a car-dependent city, so consider proximity to public transport or owning a vehicle when choosing housing.

E. Local Government Resources

  • Tauranga City Council provides information on housing developments, zoning, and community services. Visit their website for updates on housing initiatives.

6. Tips for Navigating Housing Support in Tauranga

  • Start your application process early, as waiting lists for public and transitional housing can be long.
  • Keep all your documents organized and up to date (e.g., proof of income, ID, tenancy agreements).
  • Be proactive in seeking help from community organizations and Work and Income.
  • Consider shared housing or flatting as a temporary solution while waiting for assistance.

If you need further assistance or have specific questions, feel free to ask!