Aucklanders struggling to find a place to live are increasingly resorting to living in urban camping grounds and caravan parks, Radio New Zealand reports.
Up against soaring property values and a competitive rental market, camping grounds are one alternative for those who need housing immediately.
The Salvation Army says more Aucklanders are being forced to take up the option, especially low-income earners who can not afford a bond and other set-up costs.
As the housing market in Auckland has tightened, Salvation Army staff were seeing from five to 10 cases a week of families living in cars or tents.
Mother-of-two Mandy moved to Western Park Village in Ranui, west Auckland, last Christmas as a last resort.
“I hate it here,” she said. “I want to move out, I want my own place. There's nowhere for our kids to play.”
Deputy mayor of Auckland Penny Hulse said families living in caravan parks is a sad reality of life in Auckland.
