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We follow the evidence-based Housing First model. This means a house first, then specialist support for as long as it’s needed to help people sustain their tenancies. This includes support to access to health services, employment, or mentoring landlord relationships.
We do whatever it takes to support people to stay in their homes and to live independently in their communities.
Our Story
The People’s Project began 2014 to address concerns about the growing number of people living on the streets or sleeping rough in Hamilton.
The Wise Group recognised that homelessness is a complex issue that no single organisation can solve alone. And, that an evidence-based approach was required to end – rather than manage – homelessness. Much research about what was working around the world led our founders to Housing First.
The People’s Project (TPP) then became an early adopter of Housing First, an approach that’s nationally recognised and a highly respected model for working with people experiencing homelessness.
A decade on, a small team of five has expanded to two offices in Hamilton and Tauranga, employing around 50 staff and working with hundreds of people each year who are experiencing homelessness. In the first ten years of operating, we delivered 1765 housing outcomes. The long-term and continuing benefits to the well-being of people supported into housing by TPP are evident in a five-year study of our service.
Our Values
Building a bridge from the street to home with opportunities to thrive.
That is the core of The People’s Project philosophy statement, which inspires and connects us in our mahi. We are proud to be a Peak Performing organisation, a practice that enables us to become the best we can be and achieve better outcomes for our tāngata whai ora.
The People’s Project is part of The Wise Group, a whānau of organisations providing mental health, addiction, and wellbeing services in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Our Tikanga
The People’s Project’s tikanga align strongly to the five principles of Housing First. This is represented in our TPP tāniko, a design based on traditional Māori weaving that demonstrates storytelling, connection, and cultural identity.
TPP’s five pou, or pillars, are at the heart of the design. For us, this is a visual affirmation that our service is woven from the values of te ao Māori.
It is a cultural statement that guides our practice, honours our commitments, and creates a sense of belonging for those we support. It is a living expression of our kaupapa, reminding us that every thread matters and every principle is essential.
The tāniko was designed by TPP’s Kaihautū Rautaki Māori (Māori Strategic Lead) and approved in 2025.
Connecting The People’s Project’s pou and the Housing First principles
