Lifewise and DDB NZ create the House of Cars to encourage landlords to open their hearts + homes

DDB and Goodoil have launched an immersive experience of homelessness in support of Auckland-based social agency Lifewise. The campaign calls on landlords to consider opening their rental property portfolios to those most in need.

The focal point of this campaign is an installation at Auckland’s Wynyard Quarter, outside the ANZ Events Centre. The ‘House of Cars‘ immerses visitors in the experience of what it’s like to be forced to live in your car. The House is open from 10am-7pm every day until 19 December, 2018.

The aim of the installation is to provide an eye-opening experience in the heart of the country’s most affluent business centre, driving home the message that many everyday Kiwis could end up in the same situation if disaster struck in their household.

Much of the foot traffic across the installation period is expected to be people Christmas shopping or on their way to Christmas parties and it’s hoped the House of Cars will give them compelling food for thought.

The interactive installation is made of pieces of reclaimed car parts and its interior tells the moving stories of real Kiwis who’ve found themselves without roofs over their heads.

Moira Lawler, CEO of Lifewise, says there is a waiting list of Kiwis in critical need who she would love to see housed over the holidays.

Says Lawler: “We know this is an expensive time of year when many organisations are asking you to dig into your pockets – we’re not doing that. We’re asking you to give your fellow Kiwis a chance.

“If you have a suitable property, please get in touch with us. You’ll receive market rent, tenancy management services and, most importantly, you’ll change someone’s life at what can be a very difficult time of year.”

Lawler says there is need for homes of all kinds, but in particular there is high demand for one and two bedroom properties in Auckland Central as well as West and South Auckland.

Damon Stapleton, DDB CCO, says working on this project has been a humbling experience for the team and he’s hopeful that 60 landlords will put their hands up before Christmas.

Says Stapleton: “The team at Goodoil have built something really powerful and confronting. You can’t experience it without putting yourself in the shoes of those who have been through this personally. Here’s hoping it works its socks off.”

To find out more about how you can help, and learn more about Lifewise, visit TheHouseOfCars.co.nz

Chief Executive Officer: Moira Lawler

Sound: Liquid Studios