127 days ago

Poll: The best pathway to stability - a degree or a trade?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

According to Universities New Zealand, people with university degrees generally earn more over their careers. But trades have two big advantages: you can start earning right away, and skip the mountain of student debt.

Right now, the job market isn’t looking too flash. On top of that, AI is changing industries faster than anyone expected, making the future feel uncertain for many.

For today’s high school students, it’s a tough call: take on debt for a degree that might pay off later, or jump straight into a trade that pays now but could have different long-term prospects.

So, with all that in mind, Trade or Degree? Or is this an unfair dichotomy?
What advice would you give someone trying to figure out their future?

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The best pathway to stability - a degree or a trade?
  • 32.8% Trade - immediate returns and financial stability
    32.8% Complete
  • 7.7% Degree - as long as you know 'why' you are investing in the degree
    7.7% Complete
  • 41.3% Neither guarantees success - luck and work ethic is more important
    41.3% Complete
  • 16.4% Why does it have to be one or the other?
    16.4% Complete
  • 1.7% Other - share your thoughts below!
    1.7% Complete
982 votes
More messages from your neighbours
2 days ago

Scam Alert: Fake information regarding December Bonuses from MSD

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

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.

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3 hours ago

A Christmas Carol at Glenfield Library

Honour Zhu from Glenfield Library

Come and enjoy the festive spirit and warm community vibes.
Tomorrow, 4:30pm-5:30pm, everyone is welcome.
Let’s sing together and spread the joy of Christmas throughout the community.

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3 days ago

Poll: Are Kiwis allergic to “exuberance”? 🥝

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

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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Are Kiwis allergic to “exuberance”? 🥝
  • 41.5% Yes
    41.5% Complete
  • 33.6% Maybe?
    33.6% Complete
  • 24.9% No
    24.9% Complete
586 votes