Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) has launched an online information hub for winter housing.

The council consulted with partners from a range of sectors to put together the information that makes up ‘Winter Manaaki’, QLDC community partnerships manager Marie Day said.

For renters, it offers help on where to find rental or room listings; information on renters’ rights; advice on how to be prepared for viewings; non-profit organisations that may be able to provide support; and temporary housing options. 

It also provides a range of practical information for people or businesses who are considering renting out their room or property and advises employers on how they can support employees during their house-hunt.

The council had hoped to get a matching service for landlords and renters in place in time for winter but had struggled to secure third party support.

“Council is not an accommodation provider and we need to balance our duty of care for ratepayers against the risks of stepping beyond our remit,” QLDC strategic growth manager Anita Vanstone said.

Some private companies have implemented schemes to help their employees with accommodation this winter, as the perennial shortage bites: Cardrona-Treble Cone has rented a former backpackers which can house more than 100 of its staff; and the Snow Farm has been working to connect its employees with landlords.

See also: ‘Groundhog day’ for winter accommodation

QLDC staff discussed the challenges in providing short-term accommodation support in a recent public session on the newly-unveiled Joint Housing Action Plan, council’s nine-step plan which aims to improve the supply of affordable housing.

See also: QLDC presents action plan on housing affordability

While Winter Manaaki is far from a silver bullet for the winter housing shortage, it is a resource that can connect people with useful information.

“There are a range of options, organisations and people out there and it’s important those who can benefit from this most feel welcomed and know where to go,” Anita said.

Marie also said Winter Manaaki was “just one thing” the council could do.

She said the council wanted the resource to be as helpful as possible and it is keen for any feedback or suggestions for additional useful information it could feature.

Promotion for Winter Manaaki, due to start this week, will also encourage people to consider letting out their spare rooms or properties, Marie said. 

To support people without secure housing this winter, QLDC is offering discounted showers at the Wānaka Recreation Centre at certain times of day, and free wi-fi and device charging is available at the public libraries in the district. 

Check out Winter Manaaki here.

PHOTO: Wānaka App