Māori Wardens are credited with the success of a new Auckland Central homelessness day space, Manaaki Tangata.
An old downtown storage building opens its doors daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., offering showers, laundry, and a meal.
Ron Suyker, Auckland Council’s Regional Partnerships Head for Homelessness, says it’s the Māori Wardens’ caring and welcoming approach that is working wonders.
“The aroha that they exude, and the welcoming non-judgemental space make it incredibly safe for people. And so, are inclined to go there. And then the wardens will connect them into the likes of City Mission, and the other frontline outreach providers, to try and get them into a place of betterment,” says Suyker.
Ron Suyker says the downtown space is currently on trial, but so far, it is proving to be highly effective.
