Christchurch Homeless Community Forced to Leave Church Grounds

A group of approximately ten homeless individuals has been compelled to vacate the car park at Holy Trinity Avonside in Christchurch. This decision followed an abatement notice issued by the Christchurch City Council in August 2023, which mandated the cessation of the property’s use as a camping ground. The notice was a response to several complaints received by the council last December.

Community worker Iain MacInnes, who has been actively supporting the group, expressed his distress over the situation. By the afternoon of the eviction, he confirmed that most, if not all, of the individuals had left the church grounds. “They’ve moved without any problems at all,” MacInnes noted, highlighting the respect the group showed towards the church and the need to avoid causing any disturbance.

MacInnes pointed out the complexities surrounding the homelessness issue, particularly for vulnerable populations, including women and members of the rainbow community. “It’s heart-breaking because there’s no way for us to signpost them to say, ‘This is a good, safe place’,” he said. The challenge lies in finding suitable and secure locations for those displaced, especially given the existing pressures on housing in Christchurch.

Support Agencies and Future Plans

Holy Trinity Avonside served as a crucial intermediary, connecting the homeless individuals with various support agencies, including Comcare, Housing First, and the Ōtautahi Community Housing Trust. Despite these efforts, MacInnes acknowledged that immediate housing solutions are not readily available. “These things take time,” he said, confirming that the affected individuals are now back on the housing register but still lack a clear path to stable accommodation.

MacInnes mentioned that discussions about potential alternative locations for the homeless group were complicated by existing inhabitants’ reluctance to welcome more individuals into their areas. An undisclosed site was considered but ultimately rejected due to opposition from current residents.

In addition, plans are underway to establish a new charitable trust, Te Puna Ora, aimed at facilitating re-engagement with the homeless community by mid-2026, pending the necessary funding.

Council Response and Broader Strategy

A spokesperson for the Christchurch City Council stated that the period for the abatement notice had been extended to allow time for the exploration of alternative housing options. “Council staff have been liaising with these agencies, including the City Mission, to support the process,” the spokesperson confirmed.

The council clarified that it did not direct individuals on where to go following their departure from the church grounds. Instead, the council’s focus remains on assisting social service agencies in finding safe accommodation for those affected. “There is the need for a city-wide strategy to address these issues,” the spokesperson added, noting that community providers are in the early stages of planning this comprehensive approach.

As the situation continues to evolve, the challenges faced by the homeless community in Christchurch highlight the urgent need for coordinated efforts to provide stable housing solutions and support systems.