Sandringham news is brought to you by the team at Central Leader
Recent posts
Thank you for using Neighbourly
The Government says it's scrapping those annoying card surcharges – and it’s happening next year.
Consumer NZ is stoked, saying these sneaky surcharges cost Kiwis around $65 million a year and should’ve been gone ages ago.
But not everyone’s convinced it’s a win. Labour and … View moreThe Government says it's scrapping those annoying card surcharges – and it’s happening next year.
Consumer NZ is stoked, saying these sneaky surcharges cost Kiwis around $65 million a year and should’ve been gone ages ago.
But not everyone’s convinced it’s a win. Labour and Hospitality NZ are worried the costs won’t just disappear. Labour MP Arena Williams put it simply: there should not be surcharges for customers at all. But she points out that the Government’s plan does not deal with banks and merchants “who still scoop a big fee”.
Many of our community are rocked by the recent announcement. Retailers warn card surcharge ban could lead to higher prices - the unfortunatel reality is that small businesses are feeling the squeeze along with their customers. In comparison, large retailers pay significantly lower banking fees and ultimately have more leverage at the negotiation table.
💸 So someone still pays – but who?
We want to know: Who should be covering this cost?
Share your thoughts in the comments!
One million Kiwis will hit 65 in the next decade. It’s a strange in-between: the end of work, the start of… what exactly?
Research has shown that New Zealand faces some persistent challenges when it comes to retirement readiness, says Jeff Ruscoe, AMP Managing Director. These hurdles often … View moreOne million Kiwis will hit 65 in the next decade. It’s a strange in-between: the end of work, the start of… what exactly?
Research has shown that New Zealand faces some persistent challenges when it comes to retirement readiness, says Jeff Ruscoe, AMP Managing Director. These hurdles often lead to feelings of being unprepared, particularly for those in their 50s.
Your money needs to keep up
========================
It’s well known that we’re simply not saving enough in New Zealand. That, coupled with the rising cost of living, means that building a substantial nest egg requires more focused effort and planning.
A less well-known, but significant, concern is the widespread lack of a clear plan for funding lifestyle in retirement. It’s one thing to have some savings. It’s another to know exactly how those savings will translate into a sustainable income. “Many Kiwis have no idea where to start with that. They’re unsure whether they’ve got enough savings or how to make it last,” says Ruscoe.
Sorted has recently launched its online Retirement Navigator tool. It’s a great start, says Ruscoe. “A calculator will often give you a scenario based on averages. Where we add value is by tailoring the advice to our customer’s individual scenario and creating something that works precisely for them. This gives our customers clarity so they can turn what they’ve saved into an income they can rely on.”
An alternative to leaving your money on idle
===================================
Retirement isn’t the finish line; it’s the beginning of keeping your money active and growing. Your money needs to keep up with inflation and generate an income that can serve your lifestyle goals.
Without advice, Kiwis can make mistakes, despite having saved diligently for decades. These mistakes often stem from a desire to “play it safe” or a lack of understanding about how money should behave once they say goodbye to a regular income.
Too often, for example, people cash out long-term growth investments such as KiwiSaver and park that money in term deposits, which rarely keep pace with inflation. “There’s a perception that we should become immensely conservative during retirement, but the timeframe for when they’ll need to spend their savings is often 20 years or more, giving Kiwis plenty of time to grow their wealth further,” says Ruscoe.
What about financial advice
======================
Many Kiwis who should get financial advice, don’t. Sometimes they think financial advice is something reserved for the wealthy or those right on the cusp of retirement.
“Whether you’re just starting your career, planning for a major life event, or nearing retirement, it’s always a good time to seek financial advice,” says Ruscoe. “There are no wrong answers to the ‘when’ question.”
Don’t fall into the trap of thinking you need to have a significant amount of wealth already accumulated to warrant advice. Advice is precisely what helps you build that wealth.
Navigating retirement challenges: why many Kiwis feel unprepared
=====================================================
While recent adjustments to KiwiSaver settings, such as increased contribution rates, are a positive step in the right direction, they won’t solve the problem entirely.
For many, historical under-saving, coupled with the rising cost of living, means that building a substantial nest egg requires more focused effort and strategic planning, especially with New Zealanders’ reliance on property, and that works best when coupled with financial advice, says Ruscoe.
Once Kiwis hit retirement, they face another issue, ready or not. That’s the widespread lack of a clear plan for funding lifestyle in retirement. It’s one thing to have some savings; it’s another to know exactly how those savings will translate into an ongoing income once they stop working.
It’s clear that there’s a significant gap between the aspiration for a comfortable retirement and the practical planning required to achieve it.
The power of professional financial advice: it pays to be prepared
The 2020 Money and You Survey found that New Zealanders who received professional financial advice had about 52% more in their KiwiSaver than those who didn’t. That advice led to:
Higher investment returns: beyond simply having more saved, those who sought advice also reported enjoying higher investment returns on their savings.
Greater satisfaction and wellbeing: it’s not just about the numbers. The survey also found that advised Kiwis experienced higher satisfaction with their KiwiSaver and better overall wellbeing. Having a clear plan and understanding of your financial situation, guided by an expert, can significantly alleviate this financial stress, leading to greater confidence and peace of mind.
“[This research] underscores the immense value that a conversation with a qualified financial adviser can bring to your financial future,” says Ruscoe.
AMP’s retirement advice service
===========================
Financial advice is often readily available for employees, and KiwiSaver members still growing their savings, whether through Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) or complimentary advice from KiwiSaver providers. Numerous online calculators also support those still growing their money.
When it comes to retirement and spending down your savings, there are far fewer opportunities to access financial advice. That’s why AMP has launched its new retirement advice service.
The service is designed to help Kiwis build a comprehensive plan that fits their life. “It’s not a generic template, it’s a personalised plan built around your specific circumstances, your desired retirement lifestyle and your financial goals,” says Ruscoe. “[The] service is designed to demystify the process and offer tailored support, keeping your money working, growing, and paying you for years to come.”
The goal is to empower Kiwis using AMP’s service to stop second-guessing their spending and feel confident using the nest egg they’ve built, so they can enjoy their after-work years with peace of mind and spend with confidence.
=====================================================
You’re leaving the supermarket, receipt in hand, and you can’t shake the feeling the total is higher than you’d tallied in your head. You check the receipt and notice you’ve been charged more for an item than the advertised price. So, what do you do?
1. Let the supermarket know as soon … View moreYou’re leaving the supermarket, receipt in hand, and you can’t shake the feeling the total is higher than you’d tallied in your head. You check the receipt and notice you’ve been charged more for an item than the advertised price. So, what do you do?
1. Let the supermarket know as soon as possible
If you leave it too long, the advertised price might change, and it'll be harder to prove what the price should have been.
If you’re still near the supermarket, go back in and speak to someone at the service desk or someone who looks like they’re in charge of the checkout area.
If you’ve made it home and don’t fancy going back, give them a call and ask what you should do.
2. Gather your evidence
The supermarket should be able to look in its system to find your shop and see what you paid if you didn’t take the receipt.
You can help your case by taking a photo of the advertised price and presenting it with your receipt.
3. Know the supermarket’s policy on overcharging
This one’s pretty easy because it’s the same across the big 3 supermarkets: Woolworths, New World and Pak’nSave. All 3 now have policies that if they overcharge you, you’ll get fully refunded what you paid for the item, and you can keep the product.
The policies state that if you’ve bought more than one of a product, you’ll only be fully refunded for one of them. For the rest of the products, you’ll get a refund of the difference between the correct price and what you paid.
4. Let us know!
We want to keep an eye on how widespread the issue is – and for that, we need your help. If you’re overcharged – even if you’re refunded – email your photos and receipts to us at: playfair@consumer.org.nz.
Aneleise shows us what to do
========================
Aneleise Gawn is Consumer NZ’s consumer advocate. She has been heavily involved in our fight for supermarkets to Price it Right.
While shopping at her local supermarket, Aneleise noticed the avocados had two prices – one sign priced a single avocado at $1.69, and the other priced it at $1.99. She selected an avocado from under the $1.69 sign. After getting home, Aneleise realised she’d been charged $1.99. She returned to the store with her avocado and receipt and was told she’d be refunded the difference – 30c. Aneleise pointed out that Foodstuffs’ refund policy requires a full refund when a customer is overcharged. (Foodstuffs owns New World and Pak’nSave.) The store agreed and refunded her $2.
Avocado prices
“I was pretty disappointed that I had to quote Foodstuff’s refund policy to get a full refund. It’s all very well and good having a policy in place, but if it’s not being adhered to, it’s pretty pointless. That’s why we’re calling for the government to strengthen our laws with our Price it Right campaign,” Aneleise says.
Foodstuffs said staff had been trained on the new refund policy that has been in place since the end of June in the South Island and start of July in the North Island.
Why pricing errors matter
=====================
Pricing errors might not seem like a big deal if you’re just talking a few dollars here and there. But our recent research found that 62% of New Zealanders had noticed pricing inaccuracies. This is at a time when many New Zealanders are struggling with the cost of living.
The Commerce Commission’s willingness to file criminal charges shows it’s taking the problem seriously, too. Last month, 2 Pak’nSave supermarkets pleaded guilty to more misleading pricing charges.
What can you do to help?
Our Price it Right campaign calls for the government to introduce a mandatory supermarket pricing accuracy code. The code would:
set out clear pricing rules
require a supermarket to compensate consumers when it gets pricing wrong.
The campaign also calls for higher penalties for supermarkets that don’t price it right.
Sahar Lone, Consumer’s communications and campaigns manager, explains that the policies supermarkets have are voluntary.
“Supermarkets could withdraw their policies at any time. They also might not always translate into practice, as we saw when Aneleise was overcharged for her avocado. We want supermarkets to be forced to compensate consumers and the Commerce Commission to be able to issue infringement notices when supermarkets get it wrong. Fines also need to be much higher to incentivise supermarkets to comply,” Sahar says.
Foodstuffs wanted us to add it is committed to the refund policy and has no intention of withdrawing it.
=====================================================
Have dinner at one of our 16 fabulous eating places and take advantage of FREE Babysitting and Supervised Childrens Activities for Kids aged 5-13 provided by Bricks4Kidz at the Mt Eden Village Centre.
So BOOK a Date Night with your partner, friend or group of friends, BOOK your favourite eating … View moreHave dinner at one of our 16 fabulous eating places and take advantage of FREE Babysitting and Supervised Childrens Activities for Kids aged 5-13 provided by Bricks4Kidz at the Mt Eden Village Centre.
So BOOK a Date Night with your partner, friend or group of friends, BOOK your favourite eating place in Mt Eden Village and BOOK your Free "Babysitting" Service (link below)!
We look forward to seeing you in Mt Eden Village on Saturday 16 August!
www.mounteden.co.nz...
#MtEdenVillage
#MountEdenVillage
#Maungawhau
#DineLocal
#ShopLocal
#DateNightInMtEdenVillage
#KidFreeDateNight
SHOP OR DINE in Mt Eden Village and enter the draw to win Father’s Day prizes!
Scan the QR code instore Or there are paper entry forms instore to enter.
First prize: Champagne, cake and 4 x $200 vouchers*
Further nine prizes: $200 vouchers*
* Vouchers redeemable at specified cafe, shop, … View moreSHOP OR DINE in Mt Eden Village and enter the draw to win Father’s Day prizes!
Scan the QR code instore Or there are paper entry forms instore to enter.
First prize: Champagne, cake and 4 x $200 vouchers*
Further nine prizes: $200 vouchers*
* Vouchers redeemable at specified cafe, shop, business etc in Mt Eden Village.
Winners drawn on Friday 5 September. Prizes available to collect on Saturday prior to Father’s Day.
Bought to you by the Mt Eden Village Business Association ❤️❤️
For more information, please visit www.mounteden.co.nz... and www.mounteden.co.nz...events-and-promos
#competition
#fathersday
#mtedenvillage
#mteden
#promomotion
#shopanddine
📚 JUL-AUG 2025 BOOK CATALOGUE 📚
Needing some books to get you through these cold months? There are great new releases by Brigitte Knightley (THE IRRESISTIBLE URGE TO FALL FOR YOUR ENEMY―Dearly Beloathed Series), Stephanie Laurens (THE MURDER OF THOMAS CARDWELL―The Casebook of Barnaby … View more📚 JUL-AUG 2025 BOOK CATALOGUE 📚
Needing some books to get you through these cold months? There are great new releases by Brigitte Knightley (THE IRRESISTIBLE URGE TO FALL FOR YOUR ENEMY―Dearly Beloathed Series), Stephanie Laurens (THE MURDER OF THOMAS CARDWELL―The Casebook of Barnaby Adair Series), Mariah Montoya (BY THE MOONBEAM AND THE MIST―Esholian Institute Series), Meghan Quinn (TILL SUMMER DO US PART), Devney Perry (SHIELD OF SPARROWS―Chains of the Seven Series), Rachel Schneider (METAL SLINGER―Fire & Metal Series), Nalini Singh (ATONEMENT SKY―Psy/Changeling Trinity Series), Julie Soto (ROSE IN CHAINS―Evermore Trilogy) and more. Enjoy your reading!
Check out the catalogue at
chapter.co.nz...
NB. Please see p.2 for the:
• Order link for signed copies of ATONEMENT SKY by Nalini Singh chapter.co.nz...
• Event/ticket link for AN EVENING WITH LUCY SCORE on Wed 17 Sep in Auckland
www.qtheatre.co.nz...
• Details of the Auckland Romance Readers Book Club Monthly Meetings and Auckland Romance Readers Book Club Facebook Group.
www.facebook.com...
www.facebook.com...
For Enquiries or Orders: ✉️ info@chapter.co.nz ☎️ 09-6232319 📱 021-635027
NB. Chapter’s trading hours are Tue–Sun 10–4 (we are CLOSED on Mondays, except in December).
#ChapterBookandTeaShop
#Tea
#TeaShop
#Books
#Bookshop
#RomanceBookshop
#RomanceFictionSpecialist
#BiMonthlyBookCatalogue
Thanks to a generous gift, 730 Hectares in Kaituna Valley are now protected for everyone to enjoy
Four incredible donors have come together to gift 730 hectares of land in the Kaituna Valley to the nation — a multimillion-dollar contribution that will benefit generations to come.
This land,… View moreThanks to a generous gift, 730 Hectares in Kaituna Valley are now protected for everyone to enjoy
Four incredible donors have come together to gift 730 hectares of land in the Kaituna Valley to the nation — a multimillion-dollar contribution that will benefit generations to come.
This land, which has now been protected and opened to the public, forms part of a much larger conservation area — nearly 2,400 hectares stretching from sea level at Whakaraupō/Lyttelton Harbour, up to the Summit Walkway, and back down into the Kaituna Valley.
Once used for farming, the land has now been cleared of livestock, and pest control efforts are underway to help native plants and wildlife thrive. The goal? A richer, more diverse ecosystem that everyone can experience and be proud of.
This is a powerful example of how the actions of a few can have a huge impact. Thanks to their vision and generosity, a precious piece of our natural heritage is now protected.
Read more about the Massive win for conservation and recreation in the Kaituna.
We hope this news brings a smile!
Come join us in celebrating the 78th Independence Day of Pakistan with a vibrant, family-friendly free community event!
Date: Saturday, 16 August 2025
Time: 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Venue: Samoan Assemblies of God, 38 Robertson Road, Favona, Auckland
We’ve got an exciting day planned, filled with:
… View moreCome join us in celebrating the 78th Independence Day of Pakistan with a vibrant, family-friendly free community event!
Date: Saturday, 16 August 2025
Time: 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Venue: Samoan Assemblies of God, 38 Robertson Road, Favona, Auckland
We’ve got an exciting day planned, filled with:
Cultural performances
Live music and entertainment
Delicious Pakistani food stalls
Raffle draws and fun prizes
Organised by the Pakistan Association of New Zealand (PANZ), this event is all about celebrating identity, culture, and connection.
Whether you're part of the Pakistani community or simply someone who enjoys exploring different cultures, you’re warmly welcome to join us.
Bring your friends, whānau, and curiosity — let’s come together in the spirit of unity and celebration.
Whether it's pre-schoolers or seniors, Scottish dancing or salsa, kapa haka or Kathak, breakdance or ballet - if you're encouraging people of all ages and abilities to keep moving through dance, we have three $5000 Love to Dance grants up for grabs.
Click read more to nominate your … View moreWhether it's pre-schoolers or seniors, Scottish dancing or salsa, kapa haka or Kathak, breakdance or ballet - if you're encouraging people of all ages and abilities to keep moving through dance, we have three $5000 Love to Dance grants up for grabs.
Click read more to nominate your community dance group.
Applications close 31 August 2025.
1. What’s happening?
From the end of 2025, beginning of 2026, New Zealand’s mobile operators (2degrees, One NZ and Spark) will shutdown their 3G networks.
2. Why is 3G being shutdown?
3G is old technology. This is part of a global upgrade to 4G and 5G technology, to deliver a more … View more1. What’s happening?
From the end of 2025, beginning of 2026, New Zealand’s mobile operators (2degrees, One NZ and Spark) will shutdown their 3G networks.
2. Why is 3G being shutdown?
3G is old technology. This is part of a global upgrade to 4G and 5G technology, to deliver a more reliable experience for consumers and future-proof connectivity.
3. Why does this matter?
3G-reliant phones, tablets, alarms and business/IoT devices will no longer work after the shutdown.
Most New Zealanders already use 4G or 5G devices, but if you’re unsure, it’s important to check.
Some 4G phones still use 3G for voice calls, and may require changes to settings to default to 4G networks.
Affordable, compatible devices are available, and support is available for those who need it.
4. Who is affected?
Anyone using a 3G-reliant phone, tablet, medical alarms, security alarms, business equipment, vehicle trackers and other IoT devices.
Most New Zealanders already use 4G or 5G devices, but if you’re unsure, it’s important to check your device now.
5. How can I check my phone?
FREE-TXT ‘3G’ to 550 to check you can stay connected.
Visit your mobile provider’s website or go instore for further support:
2degrees
One NZ
Spark
6. What do I do if my phone isn’t ready?
If action is required, your provider will guide you through your next steps.
You may need to update your settings or software, or upgrade your device. Affordable options are available, speak to your provider about your needs.
7. How do I update my phone to use 4G/5G?
To update your phone: make sure your phone’s software is updated to the latest version.
To turn on 4G/5G in your settings:
iPhone: Settings > Mobile > Mobile Data Options > Voice & Data > Select 4G/5G
Android: Settings > Mobile networks > Enable 4G/5G
For step-by-step help, visit your provider’s website or ask in-store:
2degrees
One NZ
Spark
8. Do I need a new SIM card?
If your SIM card isn’t 4G capable, you may need a new one.
Your provider can help you transfer your number to a new SIM if needed.
9. What if my device was bought overseas?
Some imported devices may not work on New Zealand networks, even if they are advertised as 4G.
FREE-TXT ‘3G’ to 550 to check.
10. What other devices are affected?
Any other IoT devices that rely on 3G will stop working after the shutdown.
This includes some tablets, smart watches, medical alarms, security alarms, and other business devices.
Please contact your device supplier to confirm if your device is affected.
11. What about emergency calls?
3G-reliant devices will not be able to make any calls, including to 111, after the shutdown. It is critical to check and update or upgrade your device so you can contact emergency services.
12. If I need to upgrade, can I recycle my old phone?
Yes, you can recycle your old phone for free with RE:MOBILE. There are free-post options, or over 500 drop-off locations across Aotearoa.
Learn more at: remobile.org.nz
13. Where can I get help?
Visit your mobile provider’s website or go instore for further support:
2degrees
One NZ
Spark
==================================================
Spring is just around the corner, and there’s no better time to get stuck into the garden.
Right now, when you subscribe to NZ Gardener for 1 or 2 years, you’ll receive a FREE Solo Hose End Sprayer, the perfect companion for spring prep.
The Solo 405-HE is a serious time-saver — just … View moreSpring is just around the corner, and there’s no better time to get stuck into the garden.
Right now, when you subscribe to NZ Gardener for 1 or 2 years, you’ll receive a FREE Solo Hose End Sprayer, the perfect companion for spring prep.
The Solo 405-HE is a serious time-saver — just connect, spray, and you’re done. No pumping, no premixing, no mess. It works with cost-saving concentrates like fertilisers, insecticides, herbicides and more, and covers large or small areas quickly with a smooth, sweeping spray. It fits most chemical bottles (with three thread options) or you can use the included canister.
Whether you’re nurturing veggies, taming weeds or boosting blooms, this sprayer makes the job quick, clean and easy.
Treat yourself to expert advice, seasonal inspiration – and a garden tool you’ll use all year long.
*T&Cs apply. Offer available to the first 300 people who subscribe for 1 or 2 years between August 4 – August 31, 2025.
Transform regular casement windows into elegant grid-style options that double as pretty shelving – perfect for those small, sun-loving plants. Find out how to transform your windows with these easy step by step instructions.
Premium chauffeur service available for wedding parties, corporate events, and special occasions, as well as Auckland airport transfers. We offer professional, reliable, luxury services, and all our fleets are Luxury sedans, vans, and Minibus Sprinters.
New Zealand needs to rethink how the welfare system interacts with tax - and how we approach "punishing" people who are on the benefit, a prominent economist says.
Ganesh Ahirao said the marginal tax rates that people were earning when they shifted off income support, or took on more … View moreNew Zealand needs to rethink how the welfare system interacts with tax - and how we approach "punishing" people who are on the benefit, a prominent economist says.
Ganesh Ahirao said the marginal tax rates that people were earning when they shifted off income support, or took on more work at middle incomes, were much higher than those paid by higher-income people.
He looked at a number of household scenarios to illustrate the point and said even with living wage employment opportunities available, people were only earning between $8.78 and $10.65 an hour for additional hours worked. Someone on a minimum wage would earn even less.
The Living Wage is currently set at $27.80 per hour.
=========================================
In one case, a single person whom he referred to as Manaia, with no children, no student loan and paying rent of $415 a week for a one-bedroom flat in Wellington would receive the Jobseeker Support (JS) payment alongside Winter Energy Payment (WEP) and Accommodation Supplement (ASUP) totalling in the hand $592 per week.
Six hours' work at the living wage would take income to just over $700 with those supports.
"But thereafter, the reduction of JobSeeker - at the gut-punching rate of 70 cents for every extra dollar earned - slows in-the-hand increases to a snail's pace. Consequently, the effective marginal tax rate (EMTR) faced by Manaia soars into 80 percent-plus stratospheric territory," Ahirao said.
In another case, a sole parent of two children paying $600 a week would receive the Sole Parent (SP) payment alongside WEP, the Family Tax Credit (FTC) component of Working for Families, and ASUP totalling $1047 per week.
With six hours work at the living wage, the person's income would rise to nearly $1200.
"But then the reductions in support payments brutally cut in. Firstly, the SP declines by 30 cents for every extra dollar earned and then after 10 hours per week by 70 cents per extra dollar earned. The resulting EMTR of 89.2 percent is pushed to 93.3 percent (after 14 hours per week) as FTC payments begin to decline at 27 cents for every dollar of other income. Another hit (at 24 hours per week) pushes the EMTR to 95 percent, as the ASUP also begins to decline (25 cents for every dollar of other income)," Ahirao said.
If the person worked 40 hours a week they would receive $352 more than if they did not work at all.
Ahirao said the tax and welfare systems needed to work together.
"MSD does benefits and IRD does Working for Families and student loans… they have this separation there that needs opt brought together.
"Abatement rates in the welfare system are not seen by the tax system. That's one element.
"We also need to think seriously about our perspective on penalising people. It's a punitive-first approach welfare system. There is a belief out there that everyone should work, should be able to go to work and should take up work whenever they can. To a degree that's ok but then it goes to those who don't work are somehow at fault and should be penalised. That is the perspective to get past."
He said many people out of work were not jobless by choice.
There was little encouragement to work when the benefit was clawed back so quickly, he said. "You take away 70c in the dollar - there's a perspective that if we add on to their part-time income with jobseeker they're going to get too much, it's going to be too generous so we've got to claw it back… do we want to encourage people into the workforce or penalise people for not being in the workforce?
"That's the mindset we need to get over before setting any other policies. That's a big shift in our thinking across the whole political spectrum."
A universal basic income could be part of the conversation, he said.
"I'm comfortable saying you have aright to an adequate income and that involves an obligation to contribute in society, make yourself available for work. You don't go from there to we're going to bash you with a whole lot of sanctions. You tweak the settings to make it as attractive as possible to contribute. A carrot rather than a stick approach."
Ministry of Social Development general manager of welfare system and income support Fiona Carter-Giddings said the ministry's priority was getting people into work.
"Between June 2024 and June 2025, 86,000 benefits were cancelled because the person found a job.
"We're pleased New Zealanders continue to move off benefit and into work, despite challenging economic circumstances. When people are employed they have a higher income and more opportunities to improve their quality of life.
"Government financial assistance generally reduces as other income increases, because New Zealand's welfare system targets support to people who need it the most. This is a long-standing principle of social security.
"The ideal rate at which support should reduce involves trade-offs between income adequacy, incentives to work, and maintaining appropriate costs to the taxpayer. The welfare system is designed to balance these objectives, and it is an area of ongoing debate."
====================================================
Kia ora neighbours. We're on the lookout for broccoli recipes! We will give away free copies of the October 2025 issue to readers whose broccoli recipes are used in our magazine. To be in the running, make sure you email your family's favourite broccoli recipe to us, at: … View moreKia ora neighbours. We're on the lookout for broccoli recipes! We will give away free copies of the October 2025 issue to readers whose broccoli recipes are used in our magazine. To be in the running, make sure you email your family's favourite broccoli recipe to us, at: mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, by August 15, 2025.
© Neighbourly 2025
Loading…
