Ministry of Social Development staff have been stationed at Auckland's Te Puea Marae to help coordinate efforts to help homeless people find housing.

Almost five weeks ago Newstalk ZB revealed of dozens of people were living in cars in Bruce Pulman Park in Takanini, including some families with young children.

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The story was subsequently picked up by other media, sparking a national debate about homeless families.

The ministry says it has approached 15 people who are living in cars, and it is continuing to work with one person who has accepted further support.

Auckland regional commissioner Blair McKenzie said the ministry is also working with the marae, and supporting mobile squads of volunteers from community groups.

“Local community organisations make up the mobile squads while we provide the support to make sure people are getting what they need.

"The help is there, and this is one way we can make sure those needing it are getting it.”

He said Ministry staff are also stationed at Auckland City Mission four nights a week, where 16 people have requested help and 11 social housing assessments have been booked.

But he said going through Work and Income is still be the best way for people to get the help they need as quickly as possible.