Rotorua Lakes Council is addressing the operation of two motels – Victoria Lodge and Gibson Court Motel – that have been providing emergency housing without the required resource consent. Under the District Plan, motels are permitted for short-term visitor accommodation, not as residential housing.
Compliance and Council Action
Council destination development manager Jean-Paul Gaston stated the council was aware of these motels’ leverage for emergency housing through the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development’s monthly reports. He also noted the council understands this type of use has been winding down as need reduces. While the council is not actively monitoring compliance, Gaston emphasized that it is the responsibility of motel operators to adhere to all regulations.
The council will be contacting the operators of Victoria Lodge and Gibson Court Motel to inform them of the need to obtain consent to continue providing emergency housing. Where a genuine need for emergency accommodation exists, the council expects it to be provided safely and in accordance with government policy.
Ministry Response and Motel Perspectives
Ministry of Social Development (MSD) regional commissioner Jacob Davies confirmed that responsibility for ensuring proper consents are in place lies with both businesses and the council. Davies also stated that while contracted emergency housing has ended, non-contracted options remain available for those with a genuine need.
The owner of Victoria Lodge, who requested anonymity, indicated a willingness to revert to tourist accommodation, noting recent renovations to all 13 units. She stated that guests typically stay for short periods while seeking longer-term housing solutions. She had been operating exclusively as emergency housing since around 2021 or 2022, after initially beginning during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020.
The owner acknowledged past issues with some guests, but reported improvements in recent months, noting that it has become more difficult for people to qualify for emergency housing and that she is no longer seeing the same level of social issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of the Rotorua Lakes Council in this situation?
The Rotorua Lakes Council is responsible for ensuring that properties comply with the District Plan, which designates motels for short-term visitor accommodation, not residential housing. The council is now contacting the two motels to advise them they need consent to continue providing emergency housing.
What is the Ministry of Social Development’s position?
The MSD states that it is the responsibility of businesses and councils to ensure appropriate consents are in place. While contracted emergency housing has ended, non-contracted options remain available, and the MSD will continue to provide support to those with a genuine need.
What has been the experience of the Victoria Lodge owner?
The owner of Victoria Lodge stated she is willing to return to operating as a tourist accommodation and that recent renovations have prepared the motel for that transition. She also noted improvements in the behavior of guests in recent months.
How might the need for emergency housing and local zoning regulations continue to intersect in Rotorua?
