Housing Minister Phil Heatley is defending the performance of Housing New Zealand's new call centre in the face of opposition claims that it is not working.
From last month, the agency has been closing its offices to walk-ins, and telling people to call an 0800 number instead.
The Labour Party says people are having to wait half an hour before getting assistance.
Mr Heatley told Morning Report the change has been challenging but more staff are being brought in to address demand.