The Ministry for Social Development (MSD) has cut funding for a charity providing social services to those in need, including those in emergency housing, according to the Public Service Association (PSA) union. 

In a statement, the PSA said the social development ministry was cutting an annual contract with Emerge to fund 17 fulltime Auckland-based staff working as housing navigators. 

Ministry of Social Development Auckland Central and East regional commissioner Mark Goldsmith said between July 2023 and July 2024, the number of households in emergency housing decreased by 71.3% – from 816 to 234. 

“This means fewer clients navigators need to work with,” Goldsmith confirmed. 

“We’re very pleased with the progress we’ve made in Auckland. We’ve been able to help people find accommodation that is more secure, and more suitable to their needs,” he said, adding the same trend can be seen around the country. 

The MSD thanked staff at Emerge Aotearoa for their work, with Goldsmith saying funding is based on need. 

From November 1, the MSD plans to fund Emerge to employ 10 housing navigators in Auckland – a reduction of seven from the 17 staff the PSA states it employs. 

“We will also continue funding Emerge Aotearoa to provide a range of other support services for our clients, in Auckland and around the country,” Goldsmith said. 

PSA assistant secretary Melissa Woolley slammed the cuts. 

In a statement, she said: “These people do amazing work, helping people cope with living on a benefit, people experiencing a mental health crisis, or sick or disabled, people who have been knocked back who are trying to find a safe roof over their heads. 

“They help people navigate the system, ensuring they get the support they need while in emergency housing and help them transition to permanent housing arrangements,” Woolley said. 

Azaria Howell is a Wellington-based multimedia reporter with an eye across the region. She joined NZME in 2022 and has a keen interest in city council decisions, public service agency reform and transport.