Emergency Accommodation NZ — Same-Day Housing Across Aotearoa
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Settling in New Zealand?
We can help you find a home.
Whether you've just arrived as a refugee, are seeking asylum, or are a new migrant — finding safe, affordable accommodation is one of the hardest parts of starting over. We're here to help.
Refugees & Asylum Seekers
If you have been recognised as a refugee or are seeking asylum in New Zealand, you may be entitled to government-funded transitional housing support while you establish yourself. Emergency Accommodation NZ works alongside resettlement agencies to help connect you with safe housing quickly.
- Convention refugees and quota refugees are eligible for housing support
- Asylum seekers may qualify for emergency accommodation while claims are processed
- Interpreter services available — we speak your language
Need housing now?
Start your free pre-assessment. Our team responds within 1 hour during business hours.
Apply for housingImmigration NZ
Official refugee & migrant housing info
Student? You May Qualify
for Emergency Housing
Being in study doesn't disqualify you. If you're in genuine housing need, MSD has pathways specifically for students — and we can help you navigate them fast.
You May Be Eligible If…
- You're enrolled full-time or part-time at a NZ institution
- You've lost your accommodation unexpectedly
- You're fleeing an unsafe living situation
- You have dependent children in your care
- You're receiving a Student Allowance or StudyLink loan
What MSD Can Provide
- Emergency Housing Special Needs Grant (repayable)
- Temporary Accommodation Assistance (TAA)
- Advance on Student Allowance for bond/rent
- Referral to emergency motel or transitional housing
- Food grants while you stabilise
Honest Reality Check
- StudyLink income counts toward means testing
- Full-time students on high loans may face stricter criteria
- Approval is not guaranteed — need must be genuine
- You must engage with a case manager at MSD
- We help you prepare the strongest possible application
Check your eligibility in 60 seconds
Our pre-assessment tool asks the right questions and tells you exactly where you stand — before you contact MSD.
Employed But Stuck?
MSD Can Cover Your Bond & Rent
Having a job doesn't mean you can't get help. The Housing Support Package (HSP) exists specifically for working people who can't cover the upfront costs of moving into a new home.
What is the Housing Support Package (HSP)?
HSP is a repayable grant from MSD (Work & Income) that helps people move into private rental housing when they can't afford the upfront costs. It is a loan — you do need to pay it back.
Bond assistance
Up to 4 weeks rent as a bond grant paid directly to your landlord
Rent in advance
Up to 2 weeks rent in advance so landlords accept your application
Moving costs
Removal costs, connection fees, and essential household items
Ongoing rent top-up
Accommodation Supplement if your rent exceeds your income threshold
Who Qualifies?
- Working full-time or part-time (income tested, not excluded)
- NZ citizen, permanent resident, or eligible visa holder
- Currently in emergency or unsuitable accommodation
- Have a confirmed tenancy offer from a landlord
- Income falls within MSD's regional thresholds
- Not already receiving another housing grant for the same need
Honest Information — No Sugarcoating
- HSP is means-tested — higher earners may receive partial or no grant
- You must have a confirmed tenancy offer before MSD will process HSP
- Processing can take 3–10 working days — apply before your move date
- MSD may ask for payslips, bank statements, and tenancy agreement
- If declined, you can request a review — we help you with this
- Emergency Housing grants (motels) are separate from HSP — both can apply
How to Apply for HSP — Step by Step
Find a Property
Use our platform to find an emergency accommodation provider willing to accept HSP applicants.
Get a Tenancy Offer
Secure a written tenancy offer or agreement from the landlord — MSD requires this before processing.
Contact MSD
Call Work & Income on 0800 559 009 or visit your nearest MSD office. Request HSP specifically.
We Support You
Our team can advocate on your behalf, help prepare documents, and follow up with your case manager.
Ready to apply for housing support?
Start your pre-assessment now — we'll tell you which grants you qualify for and connect you with a caseworker.