Housing NZ must provide reassurance to tenants

Wellington Central MP Grant Robertson will be meeting with Housing New Zealand officials tomorrow morning to seek an assurance that all of the tenants in the Gordon Wilson Housing New Zealand block will be accommodated in suitable, local accommodation in the wake of the issuing of seven day relocation notices to the tenants.

“The safety of residents is paramount, and Housing New Zealand is right to move swiftly if they have identified a serious problem.  But they must recognise that many of the residents are vulnerable elderly people.

“Seven days is a very short period of time for someone to move from their home.   If they are to be re-located, it must be as close to the flats as possible. They have doctors, care-givers and other services nearby which provide them with essential services.  This link needs to be maintained.

“I will also be asking Housing New Zealand to clarify how long the seriousness of this problem has been known, and whether this drastic action could have been avoided.

“Any residents who are affected and want support and advocacy are welcome to contact my office at 220 Willis St or call on 801-8079,” said Grant Robertson.