Lack of affordable housing strains family budgets localmatters.co.nz - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from localmatters.co.nz Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.
Affluence tag challenges social services
Kiri Eriwata, left, and Mary-Anne Boyd of Te Whai Community Trust
A group in Mangawhai has identified a need for expanded social services to meet the area’s population growth.
According to Kaipara District Council data, Mangawhai’s current population of 5808 is expected to almost double in the next decade to 9088, and reach close to 13,000 by 2051.
Te Whai Community Trust projects manager Kiri Eriwata says it has been difficult getting services to Mangawhai because there is a misconception that the area is wealthy and doesn’t need help.
“In fact, it has a diverse population. Rents are high and some families are struggling to make ends meet,” she says.