---
title: "What is a safe house?"
id: "541"
type: "post"
slug: "what-is-a-safe-house"
published_at: "2026-11-10T23:46:16+00:00"
modified_at: "2026-11-10T23:46:21+00:00"
url: "https://asylumsafehouse.com/learn/what-is-a-safe-house/"
markdown_url: "https://asylumsafehouse.com/learn/what-is-a-safe-house.md"
excerpt: "In films, a safe house is a hideout. In Aotearoa, it is a warm, furnished home where an asylum seeker can finally rest, eat and begin again. ... Read More"
taxonomy_category:
  - "learn"
taxonomy_post_tag:
  - "asylum seekers"
  - "Donate"
  - "Get Involved"
  - "refugees and migrants"
---

## **More than a hideout: Safe Haven Houses, providing hope**

### **Who it is for**

Asylum seekers who arrive in Aotearoa New Zealand after fleeing danger in their homeland. Many arrive with nothing, and the road ahead feels frightening. Our social workers meet each person, explain the asylum process and support them as they build a new life.

### **Why it is needed**

Immigration New Zealand does not fund housing for people while their claims are processed. The Māngere Refugee Resettlement Centre is for quota refugees, not asylum seekers. Safe Haven Housing Trust exists to fill that gap.

### What a safe house provides

- A healthy home that meets the Healthy Homes standards, fully furnished with bedding, towels, kitchen items and cleaning supplies
- Food, including emergency supplies, plus help with medical and transport costs
- Internet, so residents can stay in touch with family overseas, and a short distance to public libraries with free computers and printing
- A warm welcome on arrival, and community gatherings at Christmas, Waitangi, Anzac Day, Matariki and Easter

### **A name that means something**

The Trust’s Māori name, *Wharenui Āhuru Mōwai*, means “a family place of safety”. Residents are asked to share that spirit: respect each other, look after the property and treat volunteers kindly.

Want to help? See how you can [get involved](https://asylumsafehouse.com/get-involved/)
.