Lifewise Rotorua event raises awareness on World Homeless Day

More than 200 people have enjoyed a free event at Lifewise Rotorua in honour of World Homeless Day.

Yesterday's event to raise awareness of the challenges faced by people who experience homelessness in Rotorua's community had something for everybody.

There were performances from Rotorua entertainers alongside talent who have also gone global - Turanga Merito, DJ Poroufessor, Krissy Knap, and Te Arawa rising star Te Pumanawa O Toku Ate Rogers.

There was also a live graffiti display with internationally acclaimed graffiti artist Darryl Dlt Thomson and a free barbecue and lunch.

Lifewise Rotorua housing co-ordinator Donna-Jean Tairi said the day had been "really good and positive".

"A lot of these musicians are just all in for this cause and a few of our rough sleepers have had a chance to hit the dance floor."

Several agencies from across Rotorua gave presentations on the services they offered.

"We're the second highest for homeless in the country, and it can look like so many different things," Ms Tairi said.

"There are people couch surfing, staying with friends, rough sleepers, families in cars.

"It's bigger and more complicated than people think and that requires the work of full wrap-around services."