140 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
3 days ago

Poll: Do you set New Year’s resolutions?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

🎉 2026 is almost here!

We’re curious ... how do you welcome it?
Do you set resolutions, follow special traditions, or just go with the flow?

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Do you set New Year’s resolutions?
  • 10.5% Yes! New Year, New Me
    10.5% Complete
  • 19.9% Yes - but I rarely stick to them
    19.9% Complete
  • 69.6% Nah - not for me
    69.6% Complete
809 votes
15 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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13 days ago

Poll: Are you starting to feel a lift in business confidence across the Canterbury region?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

The Press reports that Canterbury is right in the middle of a construction boom, with activity forecast to peak around 2027 and major investment flowing into transport, water and energy infrastructure.

We want to know: Are you starting to feel a lift in business confidence across the Canterbury region?

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Are you starting to feel a lift in business confidence across the Canterbury region?
  • 43.1% Yes
    43.1% Complete
  • 56.9% No
    56.9% Complete
102 votes