Nine To Noon Around the motu: Amy Williams in Auckland
Nov 9, 2025
In this insightful discussion, Amy Williams, a senior reporter at RNZ, dives into Auckland's pressing issues. She addresses the controversial proposal to ban homelessness in the CBD, highlighting the complexities and lack of alternatives. Amy shares the City Mission's stance on prioritizing supported housing over night shelters, discussing safety concerns. She also reviews the new committee structure of Auckland Council and the deadline for the flood buyout scheme. Lastly, she unveils an exciting interactive Christmas art installation set to brighten the city center.
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Episode notes
City Debate Over Banning Homelessness
- Auckland's debate shifted from compassion to proposals to ban or move homeless people from the city centre.
- Leaders lack clear plans for where people would go and suburbs already show visible homelessness.
Policy Tightening Linked To More Rough Sleepers
- Changes to emergency housing rules coincided with a rise in visible rough sleepers in Auckland.
- Council's early-year count estimates about 800 people now sleeping rough after rules tightened.
Prioritise Supported Long-Term Housing
- Focus on long-term housing with wraparound support instead of temporary night shelters.
- Ensure services address addiction and mental health so people can remain housed.