A study on homelessness in Auckland has found the number of people sleeping rough in the centre of the city has jumped 116 percent in the past year.
The research was commissioned by Auckland Council, the City Mission and social services provider Lifewise.
The study found that, in 2014, 147 people were sleeping rough within a 3km radius of Sky Tower.
This compares with 68 the year before.
The research shows that a history of physical violence, emotional abuse and neglect at a young age is a common pathway to life on the streets.
Auckland City missioner Diane Robertson said the work should help dispel misconceptions about the homeless, and ensure its services are relevant to those who need them.
