Homelessness is an issue that is highly gender-bound in most western countries (Bukowski 2009). While there is some information available relating to the experiences of homelessness in the city centre more generally, there is little that dives deep into the experience of women.
Mana Wahine is designed to highlight the unique and particular experiences and needs of women who find themselves homeless in the Auckland city centre.
It is hoped that the insights, alongside the Opportunities for Change from this document, will enable Te Miringa Trust and other organisations to explore solutions that are person-centred and meet both the explicit and latent needs of women experiencing homelessness in the city centre.
Acknowledgements
Firstly and most importantly, we would like to thank the women who contributed their stories to this report. We acknowledge your pain and your strength. We thank you.
Ngā mihi nui ki a koutou wāhine toa.
We would also like to acknowledge the Auckland City Mission and Sisters of Mercy New Zealand, Nga Whaea Atawhai o Aotearoa who have provided financial support for this project.
Ehara taku toa i te toa takitahi, engari he toa takitini.
My strength is not that of a single warrior, but that of many.
Top row
Kirsten Sloan
Te Miringa Trust
Sophia Beaton
Kāi Tahu, Kāti Mamoe,
Lifewise – Project lead
Sarah Greenaway
Lifewise Senior Advisor
Policy and evaluation
Sue Rishworth
Te Miringa Trust
Elizabeth Elliott
Lifewise
Project Specialist
Bottom row
Aroha Wilson
Ngāti Paoa, lived experience of homelessness,
Lifewise Merge Community team
Katz Ruatara
Ngā Puhi, lived experience of homelessness,
Lifewise Merge Community team
Helen Robinson
Te Miringa Trust,
Auckland City Mission
Not pictured
Aggie Garbarek
Lived experience of homelessness,
Lifewise Merge Community team
Sr Leona Garchow
RSM, Te Miringa Trust
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