2018 Research by Auckland Council: Housing instability in Tāmaki Makaurau - Stories from single mothers and front-line service providers

In 2018, Auckland Council commissioned research to inform a regional homelessness plan for Tāmaki Makaurau, focused on ensuring homelessness is rare, brief and non-recurring.

The research centred on the lived experience of housing instability, with a specific focus on single mothers - a group recognised as being particularly vulnerable to homelessness.

Conducted by Innovation Unit (a not-for-profit social enterprise that grows new solutions to complex social challenges), the research drew on interviews with single mothers who had experienced homelessness, as well as front-line service providers. It aimed to uncover the causes of housing instability, the barriers women face in accessing support and housing, and the long-term impact on their families.

Key insights revealed that single mothers are resilient and resourceful; often making incredibly difficult decisions with little support or clear information. Many face significant gaps in services and support, and some feel forced to lie or hide parts of their situation just to keep their families together and safe. Uncoordinated support systems add to their burden.

The women’s words spoke for themselves:

“My kids won't go in a Housing New Zealand house when they're older. I've got them in a good school and given them a good upbringing. I'm overcoming generations of abuse in my family.”

“All I want is to have my family together under a roof. Their well-being means everything to me.”

“I kept asking, what's happening? Where am I on the list? They can't tell you anything, and just say they'll get in touch when a house comes up. But how long will that take!? How do I get prioritised? Do I need to commit a crime? Become a drug addict?”

“When you swallow your pride and go and ask for help only to get a no from everyone, it really pushes you back. You learn to deal with it on your own, by yourself.”

The research made it clear: to end homelessness for women and children, we need targeted, coordinated support that listens to women’s experiences and acts on what they need. 

Read the report here