World Homeless Day 2025 Street Art Project

September 16, 2025

To acknowledge World Homeless Day 2025 we’re showcasing a range of artwork and poetry created by people who have experienced homelessness, sharing their stories, voices and creativity.

Homelessness in Ōtautahi is increasing at an alarming rate. The waitlist for the Housing First Ōtautahi service is higher than it’s ever been, and we are increasingly seeing more people in unsafe situations. There is huge stigma associated with homelessness. With this art project, we hope to share the voices of those experiencing homelessness and invite you to consider the person behind the artwork.

Artwork and poetry are currently on display in three Central City locations:

• Phantom Billstickers bollard on Manchester Street opposite the Muse Hotel
• The Toi Ōtautahi lightboxes outside Te Pae
• Poetry display on Mollett Street off Colombo Street

You can view the full range of artwork and poetry by clicking here

The World Homeless Day 2025 Street Art project is a collaboration between Housing First Ōtautahi, The White Room Creative Space, Watch This Space, Christchurch City Mission, and Christchurch City Libraries.