Chris Hipkins is being urged to look at other options for children staying alone in MIQ

The Chief Ombudsman told a select committee on Thursday the standard of care for some unaccompanied young people in MIQ is less than satisfactory.

Peter Boshier says some may have challenging physiological needs, but the state has an obligation to ensure they are accommodated for.

Save the Children Advocacy and Research Director Jacqui Southey says they need to be treated better.

She says we need community solutions rather than staying alone inside a motel for two weeks.

Southey says it's only a matter of time before serious harm happen to children in these environments.