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Is he concerned about reports in the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development’s recent Homelessness Insight report that say there was an increase in the number of nights spent in mental health and addiction facilities by people reported as homeless from 571 nights in June 2024 to 970 nights in June 2025 and if so, what specific action, if any, is he taking to help address this issue?

Answered Question 596 (2026)
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Asked by

Kieran McAnulty

List MP · Labour Party

Question

  • Is he concerned about reports in the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development’s recent Homelessness Insight report that say there was an increase in the number of nights spent in mental health and addiction facilities by people reported as homeless from 571 nights in June 2024 to 970 nights in June 2025 and if so, what specific action, if any, is he taking to help address this issue?

Answered by

Hon Tama Potaka

Member for Hamilton West · National Party · Associate Minister of Housing

Answer

This Government has continued investment over more than $550 million in programmes and services which aim to prevent homelessness and support people when it does occur, including programmes and services for people with complex needs, such as mental health and addiction. In September 2025, this Government also announced five immediate actions to expand the support for rough sleeping and help them into homes.