Poverty, home and belonging among two Pacific families in Auckland

Abstract

Poverty affects many Pacific households in New Zealand. In Auckland alone, ‘home’ to the majority of Pacific people in the country, many have poor access to adequate housing, are less likely to own a home, and have the highest rate of household overcrowding than any other ethnic group. Despite this deprivation there is lack of research in the area, this thesis therefore not only contributes to filling the gap in literature but also provides a Pacific perspective. The first aim of the study was to gain an in-depth understanding of the issues of poverty and homelessness as experienced by two Pacific households who each exemplified the various forms of homelessness in New Zealand. The second aim was to understand what ‘home’ and ‘family belonging’ mean for Pacific with emerging identities, within the context of poverty and ‘homelessness.’ The third aim of the study is to explore the strengths which enable Pacific families to survive and thrive in the midst of urban poverty. This study utilizes Archival research material collected from two Pacific families seeking temporary accommodation with a non-government organisation (NGO) as part of a wider research project which ran from 2007 – 2011. To make sense of the archival data consisting recorded semi-structured interviews and photo-elicitation interviews, background notes and photographs; case study analysis was utilized. Findings suggest that moving and instability, and ‘family disruption’ are crucial pathways and issues of various forms of homelessness. This includes disruptions from relatives when living in overcrowded living arrangements. Having a safe and secure home is central to each Pacific household’s children’s wellbeing, as well as their family values of autonomy and togetherness enabling them to endure impoverished situations. Such family values are dependent on the distinction between ‘immediate’ family, and ‘extended’ family. Because material from the follow-up photo-elicitation interview with one of the household’s in their new home provided by Housing New Zealand was available, the research was also able to capture their family values of reciprocity and resilience. Overall, the research suggests the need for further research, and greater dialogue between non-government organisation (NGOs); government organisations, and impoverished communities so as to ensure efficiency of services for Pacific ‘homeless’ families. Key words: Pacific households, homelessness, poverty, home, family belonging, archival research data, photo-elicitation, case study analysis, movement and instability, family disruption, safety and security, family values