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Winter Costs - Heating
You may be able to get help with the cost of heating your home through the Winter Energy Payment, the Warmer Kiwi Homes subsidy, or a local council scheme.
If you receive a Work and Income benefit (including New Zealand Superannuation or Veteran's Pension), you will automatically receive a Winter Energy Payment of about $20-$30 a week, depending on whether you are single, or a couple and whether you have dependent children. It is paid over the winter months from 1 May until 1 October.
If you are finding it difficult to pay your power bills due to financial hardship, talk to your energy provider. For example, they might refer you to a budgeting provider or Work and Income, or work out a payment plan for you. They should only disconnect your power as a last resort.
For more information on financial assistance with the cost of heating your home, visit: www.cab.org.nz...
For more information on power companies and medically dependent consumers, visit: www.cab.org.nz...
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Poppa's pulled pork
As the weather cools and cosy evenings become the norm, there’s nothing better than cranking up the heat and treating yourself to heartwarming comfort food. If you're craving a winter recipe that'll warm you from the inside out, look no further than Brent's irresistible slow-cooked pulled pork. Its smoky, aromatic scent often wafts from Brent’s apartment at Ryman’s Kevin Hickman Village, tempting taste buds and stirring appetites. With its tender meat and velvety sauce, this dish is every bit as delicious as it sounds – you’ll be reaching for seconds, thirds, and maybe even fourths!
Click read more for the full recipe.
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Poll: Are swear words no longer?
In 2023, Apple amended its autocorrect function to allow Iphone users to freely use their intended word without mentioning 'ducks'. Is this a sign of the times? Are swear words no longer taboo in our communities or workplaces?
Type 'Not For Print' if you wish your comments to be excluded from the Conversations column of your local paper.
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20.7% Yes - swear words don't phase me
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48.4% No - it's still inappropriate to swear
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30.2% It's depends on the word
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0.8% Other - I'll share below!
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Sunshine state of mind
Create a mood-enhancing workspace at home with a fresh and uplifting colour palette with Resene SpaceCote Low Sheen and Resene Lustacryl.
Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.
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