Former Refugee Faces Mortgagee Sale After Generous Charity Work

Zuhaib Bangash, a former refugee and owner of a kebab shop in Glen Eden, Auckland, is facing the imminent loss of his home due to financial difficulties, despite having spent approximately $1 million on charitable efforts to feed the homeless. Bangash has just over a month to sell his four-bedroom property at 29 Woodbank Drive before the bank intervenes.

Refugee who spent $1m feeding the homeless races to sell before bank steps in

Bangash's journey began in Pakistan, where he worked in human rights and faced threats from the Taliban. After the unexpected death of his wife in 2012, he relocated to New Zealand with his five children, experiencing homelessness himself for a week before receiving assistance from a local kebab shop owner. This act of kindness inspired him to give back, leading to his initiative of providing free meals to Auckland's homeless population.

Refugee who spent $1m feeding the homeless races to sell before bank steps in

Zuhaib Bangash is a notable figure in his community, recognized for his philanthropic efforts. He has been providing free kebabs to the homeless for several years, with his charitable work gaining significant attention after a social media post went viral. Despite facing criticism from the Glen Eden Business Association, which claimed his actions encouraged anti-social behavior, Bangash remained committed to his cause.

Refugee who spent $1m feeding the homeless races to sell before bank steps in

Bangash has expressed his determination to help those in need, stating, “I will spend money on needy peoples.” He believes that if every businessperson contributed even a small amount, homelessness could be significantly reduced in New Zealand. His listing agent, Sahil Mehta, noted that Bangash is "going through liquidation" and urgently needs to find a buyer for his home.

Refugee who spent $1m feeding the homeless races to sell before bank steps in

The Glen Eden Business Association has voiced concerns regarding Bangash's charity work, arguing that it has led to increased anti-social behavior in the area. This criticism has not deterred Bangash, who continues to prioritize his charitable efforts over his financial stability.

Refugee who spent $1m feeding the homeless races to sell before bank steps in

Bangash's property at 29 Woodbank Drive is currently listed for sale, with an estimated value of just under $1 million. He has reached out to Ray White listing agent Sahil Mehta, who has a history of successfully assisting homeowners in similar situations. Bangash's urgency to sell stems from the need to avoid a mortgagee auction, which could result in the loss of his home.

Refugee who spent $1m feeding the homeless races to sell before bank steps in

“Suddenly here I am, a widower with five kids, and I needed to build a different life,” — Zuhaib Bangash

Refugee who spent $1m feeding the homeless races to sell before bank steps in

“One thousand, two thousand, three thousand, four thousand is no problem. I will spend money on needy peoples.” — Zuhaib Bangash

Refugee who spent $1m feeding the homeless races to sell before bank steps in

“His kindness helped me so much. It is funny because these days, it is me giving out free food. I am grateful because I got the support when I needed it, and now I am in a position to be able to help others,” — Zuhaib Bangash

Refugee who spent $1m feeding the homeless races to sell before bank steps in

While Bangash claims to have spent around $1 million on charitable efforts, the exact financial implications of his charity work on his personal finances remain unclear. Additionally, the extent of the community's opposition to his actions is not fully detailed, leaving gaps in understanding the broader impact of his charity on local dynamics.

Refugee who spent $1m feeding the homeless races to sell before bank steps in