National MP for Coromandel Scott Simpson. Photo: VNP / Phil Smith
The National MP for Coromandel says residents deserve to know when the Ministry of Social Development office in Thames can be reopened for clients.
The office on Pollen Street was closed in November due to building damage.
A temporary office was opened on Queen Street, but closed last week after a water pipe burst.
MP Scott Simpson said his office had been inundated with residents frustrated at the continued closure.
"Thames' MSD office services clients across the Coromandel Peninsula.
"It's an essential service for people in need of financial assistance.
"This is where people collect and drop-off documents, have in-person appointments, and make general enquires into their entitlements."
MSD regional commissioner Tracy Smith said in a statement she understood the concerns.
"We acknowledge the frustration of clients from the Thames-Coromandel area with the temporary closure of the Thames Service Centre operating out of the Wintec building.
"The Wintec building had to close after a burst water pipe affected the ceiling and carpet. We have been working as quickly as possible with the building owner to effect repairs."
Simpson said it was unreasonable to expect clients to travel to the MSD offices in Paeroa or Waihi, especially when Thames is already a journey for many.
"Local MSD clients deserve to know what is being done to restore a permanent forward-facing office in Thames."
Smith said that MSD was unable to set up a temporary office due to specific requirements, but expected to have the centre operating out of the Wintec building by 5 August.
"While these repairs are happening, MSD face-to-face services will be limited.
"In the meantime, our staff are able help clients over the phone if needed. If a client is urgently requiring an appointment, our team will do the best they can to cater to these needs over the phone.
"Where a face-to-face appointment is absolutely required or preferred, this may mean clients will need to travel to our nearest sites in Paeroa or Waihi until our Thames site reopens. This would be used as a last resort."