Tauranga's first women's shelter is opening its doors today.
An inner city property, Āwhina House has been refurbished to become a place for women to feel safe and make home.
The shelter recieved funding from the Tauranga City Council, businesses and trusts.
It comes after the council's contorversial bylaw last week banning begging and rough sleeping in Tauranga's CBD.
Rough sleepers and beggars will be moved on if found within five metres of any business. (Source: Other)
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Opponents to the ban were worried the new rule would further compromise the security of women.
Homeless people in Tauranga have said they relied on the security cameras and lighting in the central city to keep them safe.
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