Wellington Women’s House is transitional housing for women receiving a benefit who are in housing transition and who are working towards securing stable, sustainable housing and a stronger future.
Living here requires commitment and collaboration to creating better opportunities while living in a stable environment and space to do so.
Wellington Women’s House is a non-religious, women focused organisation that provides supportive communal living for women who are able to live independently. The House is designed for women on their own, and we do not accommodate children or couples.
Located in Mount Victoria, close to the city centre, the House is a large character villa with a sunny front garden and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Residents have access to shared living spaces, including a communal lounge for relaxing, connecting, or watching TV, a quiet sitting room with computer and Wi-Fi access, and a well-equipped kitchen where women can cook and share meals alongside one another.
The House has 16 bedrooms, with our residents staying between three and six months. We are not a short-term accommodation option.
Women who stay with us come from a wide range of backgrounds and circumstances, including those who are:
- New to Wellington
- Seeking connection and community
- Transitioning between homes
- Leaving harmful or unsafe environments
Residents are required to provide their own food and personal belongings during their stay.
Our vision is for every woman in Wellington to have access to a safe, comfortable home that supports her wellbeing and enables her to meet her needs.
How we started
In 1987, women working in the city’s social agencies could see that there was no low-cost accommodation for single women in Wellington. A group was formed to solve the problem, and in 1989 the Housing Corporation bought and renovated the house with the intention of providing accommodation to women who were in transition, or on a low income.
Wellington Women’s House was opened in 1992 by the Governor-General at the time, Dame Catherine Tizard. All its furnishings, equipment, and even topsoil for the garden was provided by volunteers.
The House exists due to our ongoing partnership with Housing New Zealand, now Kāinga Ora. Their Community Group Housing scheme provides us with a reduced rental rate, while also contributing to the House’s upkeep.
Our team
We have a small, dedicated team of staff who help ensure everything at the House runs smoothly. They provide support and advocacy to our residents, helping them access services and entitlements, and prepare for a move into their own affordable, permanent housing. Our team includes:
- a Manager
- a qualified Social Worker
- a Coordinator
- a Cleaner
The House is managed by the Wellington Women’s House Incorporated Society. Our Management Committee, made up of a small group of volunteers, provides governance and support.
Our supporters
We depend on the generosity of the volunteers, donors and organisations who support the House. They give us their time and energy, as well as financial support and donated goods, to help us provide a safe home to women in need.
