Davidson expresses regret over not being able to do more for homeless

On World Homeless Day, Marama Davidson has expressed regret at not being able to do more as the minister responsible for homelessness.

The Green Party co-leader told 1News that her role as an associate housing minister did not give her enough "power" to eliminate homelessness, and she needed more support from her Labour Party colleagues in cabinet to get the job done.

"What frustrates me is there has always been a solution to this, which is making sure we’ve got enough housing that is affordable and healthy for everyone to put down roots," she said.

"With the impacts of climate and weather and Covid, we are unfortunately seeing more and more people struggling. This is why we need more Greens around the decision-making table so we can actually properly invest and scale up Kāinga Ora."

The Green Party wants to build 35,000 more public and community houses, which Davidson said would clear the social housing wait-list.

At last count, it was estimated more than 100,000 people face severe housing deprivation that includes those without shelter, in temporary accommodation, or living in a severely crowded dwelling.

See more on this story in the 1News at 6pm report above.