The rental housing shortage in Christchurch is desperate and the city will not get through the winter unless the Government intevenes, a tenants' advocacy group warns.
Property managers say the shortage due to recent devastating earthquakes is affecting all levels of the market, while social agencies believe the situation has reached crisis point.
The Government is building a third temporary accommodation village in eastern Christchurch to meet the shortage.
However, it has also indicated a solution to the issue would be best left to the market.
But the Tenants Protection Association says some properties on offer are in an appalling condition.
Christchurch manager Helen Gatonyi says Government intervention is needed and solutions might include a rent ceiling.
