Snow Farm has asked the community for help with housing its staff this winter, describing the situation as a crisis. 

During recent winters the rental squeeze has led to seasonal workers sleeping in cars, setting up makeshift bedrooms in garages, and turning down jobs due to difficulty finding affordable accommodation. 

Snow Farm general manager Sam Lee has asked members of the community to consider providing a space for workers for this upcoming winter to help mitigate the growing problem.

“...finding reasonably priced housing during winter can be challenging, and we are facing a crisis this winter,” Sam said. 

The local cross country ski field is asking community members to consider renting a room or property to the workers.

“Many of our employees have signed up, but have said that if they cannot find affordable accommodation, they cannot work for us this winter.”

Sam said the Snow Farm wanted to hear from anyone who has a spare room or accommodation they would be willing to rent to their winter staff. 

“We encourage you to consider offering a room or if you have it, a rental property to our employees,” he said. 

“This is an excellent opportunity to give back to the community, meet new people, and make some extra income.” 

Almost three quarters of respondents to a recent local survey said the availability of accommodation for staff is an issue for their business. 

That problem is exacerbated in peak seasons like winter when hundreds of workers are hired to staff the local ski fields.

In addition, a recent labour market snapshot report found that rental supply is now lower than it was before the Covid-19 pandemic.

Anyone who has accommodation for the winter workers is encouraged to contact Snow Farm.

PHOTOS: Wānaka App