Workers sleeping in cars as travellers drive price of rentals up episode artwork

EPISODE · Mar 4, 2026 · 3 MIN

Workers sleeping in cars as travellers drive price of rentals up

from Checkpoint

In the Mackenzie some workers are resorting to sleeping in cars, campervans or commuting because there aren't enough affordable rentals as travellers continue to stream through. The local mayor has described Tekapo and Twizel as bursting at the seams with visitors, saying it's a welcome economic boost but it's coming at a cost. Hundreds of homes are earmarked for short term stays and prices are high, leaving some struggling to find a roof over their heads. Tourism reporter Tess Brunton has more.

In the Mackenzie some workers are resorting to sleeping in cars, campervans or commuting because there aren't enough affordable rentals as travellers continue to stream through. The local mayor has described Tekapo and Twizel as bursting at the seams with visitors, saying it's a welcome economic boost but it's coming at a cost. Hundreds of homes are earmarked for short term stays and prices are high, leaving some struggling to find a roof over their heads. Tourism reporter Tess Brunton has more.

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Workers sleeping in cars as travellers drive price of rentals up

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This episode was published on March 4, 2026.

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In the Mackenzie some workers are resorting to sleeping in cars, campervans or commuting because there aren't enough affordable rentals as travellers continue to stream through. The local mayor has described Tekapo and Twizel as bursting at the...

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