People forced out of their homes due to natural disasters will now be provided free accommodation by the Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management (MCDEM). The initiative is the result of a partnership with Airbnb, who will now provide free housing for displaced people in contact with Civil Defence.
“Emergencies such as floods, fire and earthquakes often result in people needing to leave their homes, not knowing when they will be able to return,” said Sarah Stuart-Black, director, MCDEM.
“While most people stay with friends and family, not everybody has that option, and we need to ensure everyone has somewhere safe and comfortable to stay.”
In California, the same programme was introduced to help people affected by the wildfires. The initiative’s recent launch in New Zealand came a response to those fires as well as well the flooding in the South Island.
“Everyone has a role to play in keeping the community safe and helping those in need. This landmark partnership will help bolster New Zealand’s emergency preparedness and response arrangements,” said Bob Carr, member of the Airbnb Tourism Advisory Board.
