A woman who took up the Government's relocation grant to move to Hamilton, says she's now doing everything she can to get back to Auckland.

Teri Standen said she wanted a fresh start with the $5000 grant - and moved south at the start of July.

But she said she hates her life in Hamilton.

She said the local school isn't what she expected, and there are gang members living on the street she's been housed on.

Standen's warning people to do their own research before jumping on the offer - as she simply trusted Housing New Zealand to disclose "relevant" information.

She said going to check out the option first-hand prior to relocating was not an option for her due to petrol costs and childcare commitments.

Her advice to others tempting by the chance of a fresh start and a bit of cash: "Anyone who's going to take the relocation grant, research where you're going to thoroughly, if you can, and be very wary about where they're putting you."

A spokeswoman for Social Housing Minister Paula Bennett said she would not comment as it was an operational matter.