A national disability group has credited Kaikohe hunger-striker Sam Kuha with 'shining a light' on the daily struggle many disabled people face to survive.
Mr Kuha says he has not eaten since September 14, when he was refused a $40 food grant at Work and Income in Kaikohe because he would not see a budgeter.
The 59-year-old lost a leg and the use of one arm when he was run over 20 years ago. He receives an invalid's benefit which he says leaves him with $18 a week once his regular bills, such as his mortgage, power and rates, have been paid.
CCS Disability Action says Mr Kuha's protest highlights the growing inequalities and hardship facing disabled people. Regional manager Auriole Ruka, who has met Mr Kuha to lend her support, said his experience was far from isolated.
"He was advised to see a budget adviser when his most urgent need was food. What we really need is a commitment to looking at solutions that will make a meaningful difference in people's lives," Ms Ruka said.