There are calls for a change to the way we think about beggars.

It comes after a Hastings man was convicted of fraud for begging for food and shelter while receiving a benefit and living in a house. 

More and more of those piling into Wellington's streets to beg also have a roof over their head.

But deputy mayor Paul Eagle said it doesn't mean they're any less in need.

"The reason why people are begging is not just because they are homeless, but the point I made around saying that they have in many cases complex needs that they can't get help with.

"I mean some of these people can't even afford to pick up their prescription pills. They just don't have the money."

Eagle said he would hope authorities in Wellington would continue helping beggars rather than prosecuting them.

"It's not something I would encourage the police here to do," he said.

He said the council has an on-the-ground team working with beggars, but it's access to central government services that will be the game changer.

"Yes, beggars do have a home, but not all of them. But those who do still simply can't afford to live, and the services that were there for them are now not there."