Winter Energy Payment
The Winter Energy Payment starts again on Thursday 1 May. This helps keep your home warm and dry over winter.
If you get NZ Super or Veteran’s Pension, you will be entitled to receive it from Thursday 1 May until Wednesday 1 October. This is done automatically; you don’t need to apply.
When you receive NZ Super on Tuesday 6 May it will include a part Winter Energy Payment. Your first full Winter Energy Payment will be on Tuesday 20 May.
Couples and people with dependent children will get $31.82 a week. Single and widowed people will get $20.46 a week.
Couples will receive a combined payment which is made to one person in the couple – unfortunately we can’t split it, but we can switch it to the other person’s account. Please get in touch if you want to do so by calling the MSD Seniors Line on 0800 552 002.
If you are overseas
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If you are travelling overseas during this period, or you are already in another country on Tuesday 1 May, you can keep getting the Winter Energy Payment for up to 28 days (or four weeks).
You must tell MSD if you’ll be away for more than 28 days, otherwise you could be paid incorrectly. If this happens, you may be required to pay some money back.
The easiest way to let MSD know about your travel is using the ‘Overseas travel dates for NZ Super or Veteran’s Pension’ online form, or by giving MSD a call on 0800 552 002. You will also need to tell MSD when you return, so your payment can be started again.
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Scam Alert: Fake information regarding December Bonuses from MSD
The Ministry of Social Development is reporting that fake information is circulating about new ‘December bonuses’ or ‘benefit increases’
If you get suspicious communication, please contact Netsafe.
Poll: Are Kiwis allergic to “exuberance”? 🥝
In The Post’s opinion piece on the developments set to open across Aotearoa in 2026, John Coop suggests that, as a nation, we’re “allergic to exuberance.”
We want to know: Are we really allergic to showing our excitement?
Is it time to lean into a more optimistic view of the place we call home? As big projects take shape and new opportunities emerge, perhaps it’s worth asking whether a little more confidence (and enthusiasm!) could do us some good.
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41.5% Yes
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33.6% Maybe?
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24.9% No
Tips and advice to stay street smart this summer
Summer is finally here!
Time for BBQs, holidays, Christmas, travelling and events galore.
We've put together a whole range of tips and advice so you can put your feet up and relax this summer, knowing that it's all good in your hood.
Our first piece of advice to make your neighbourhood safer this summer, is to get to know the people who live around you! People who know each other are more likely to offer, accept, and ask for help when needed.
Shop Safe - Preventing Fraud & Scams
You might find yourself making more purchases than usual at this time of year, and many of those might be online, so here's a set of tips and advice to make sure you stay safe and secure whilst doing your Christmas shopping this year. And remember to think about the security of your online shopping when it gets delivered!
Heading away this summer?
It's a busy time of year on new Zealand roads and everyone wants to get from A to B safely. It's also important that your home stays safe while you're away enjoying your 'home away from home'. We have put together a set of tips and advice to help make that happen!
Keeping your car, home and belongings safe
From recording valuable possessions to securing locks, keeping valuables hidden and informing trusted neighbours that you will be away, there are many things you can do to keep your car, home, and belongings safe. Here's a bunch of handy tips!
Party planning checklist and fire-wise tips
Whether it’s a small backyard gathering, or a big celebration for a special occasion, a little extra planning and consideration will go a long way in keeping you, your guests, and your neighbours happy. We also have some tips to make sure you and your families stay fire-wise during summer.
Get to know your neighbours - look out, reach out, help out
The most important action you can take to make your community safer is get to know the people who live around you. People who know each other are more likely to offer, accept, and ask for help when needed.
It is also important to know who to contact in an emergency and when to use the non-emergency contact for NZ Police. Learn more about Neighbourhood Support, get tips on getting to know your neighbours and the best way to contact the police below.
Strong communities start with small hellos
In terms of crime prevention, your neighbours are the best and cheapest security system you can have. You don't have to love your neighbour, but at least get their number just in case!
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Have a happy, safe and connected summer!
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