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As Rotorua becomes one of the worst places in the country for homelessness, community members are finding ways to ease the burden.
The latest is a drop in centre run by kapa haka and tourism entrepreneur Wetini Mitai Ngatai, Tiny Deane and Lara Northcroft.
Mr Ngatai says the new venture is using leftover food from Mitai Village, and it’s also taking donations to help people out.
He says for many people, whether it’s whanau living in cars or garages or rough sleepers, having a place to gather is as important as what they get there.
"Being able to provide premises where people are able to sit, relax, get out of the cold, get out of the street, and we’re not just talking Maori. Ninety percent Maori and Pakeha also coming up, it doesn’t matter who they are. We just want to be able to support people that need a kai. We’re not judging anybody. If you need a kai, come in and have a kai," Mr Mitai Ngatai says.
As well as food the group is looking at other services the people may need.
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