Families are being turned away from Auckland's City Mission because there's not enough food to hand out.
The social agency is seen as a last resort for those who are struggling, but as Christmas approaches the demand is overwhelming.
The Auckland City Mission has handed out 8500 Christmas hampers over 10 days, double the amount compared to last year.
"By 7:30am today we had numbered over 250 people in the queue and I had very sadly turned away another 60 or 70 people," Auckland City Mission's Helen Robinson told 1 NEWS.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern is hoping her Child Poverty Reduction Bill that was passed into law last night will make a difference.
"It recognises that we must have an enduring commitment in this area if we are to see long term systemic change," Ms Ardern said of the bill.
In 10 years she wants the number of children going without the basics like healthy food to halve.
"We've already put in place the families package and I'm getting letters now coming through from parents saying I can now afford to turn on the heater and I can get extra sock and blankets for my kids," she said.
But for many this Christmas it could be a struggle to find food, even from those who are wanting to give it.
SHARE ME