If your power bill feels like more than you can handle right now, you're not the only one. Many New Zealanders are feeling the pinch, especially when the weather turns colder. But there is help available. 

Whether you're after short-term support or longer-term advice, here are some places you can turn to.

Support from power companies 

Most power companies have teams or funds in place to help households going through tough times — so make contact as soon as you can. 

Your power company is obligated to help you. If your electricity provider knows you are finding it hard to pay a bill, then they must offer alternative payment options. 

Find out more at yourpower.co.nz(external link)  

Your rights when power could be disconnected 

Knowing your rights can help protect you and your household if your electricity provider is considering disconnection, especially in situations where timing or medical needs make it more serious. 

  • Your power supplier needs to try and contact you at least five times before they disconnect your power.  
  • If your electricity provider has reached the point of disconnection, they should not do it when it is hard to get re-connected. This means you should not be disconnected just before a weekend, public holiday, early in the morning or late at night. 
  • Your electricity must not be disconnected if you or someone in your house is medically dependent on electricity. That means you need a supply of electricity in your home to stop serious harm.  
  • It is important you tell your electricity provider if you or someone in your house is medically dependent.

Consumer Care Obligations | Electricity Authority (external link)

Power Credits Scheme 

Some power companies offer a $110 credit to households on low-use plans as part of a government initiative. You may also be eligible for a second credit if you’ve spoken with a budgeting advisor (below). 

Contact your energy provider to see if you can receive the credit. 

EnergyMate 

The Electricity Retailers’ Association of New Zealand (ERANZ) runs EnergyMate. Households experiencing energy hardship can be referred into the programme by their power company, their local participating budgeting support service, or participating Healthy Homes Initiative support services. An EnergyMate coach will visit you at home, help with contacting your power company and develop an action plan with you to help your household use electricity more efficiently, which can save money. 

Contact your energy provider to see if you can receive the credit, or find our more here: energymate.nz(external link) 

  • More support is available

    The Electricity Retailers’ Association of New Zealand (ERANZ) have put together a resource with lots of details about support available to New Zealand households. 

Free advice and budgeting support

There are free budgeting services available that can help you make a plan to get on top of your power bills and connect you with the right support.

Government help with power bills 

There are government services that can help with power bills - including one-off payments and winter support from Work and Income, and help for students through StudyLink. 

Work and Income (WINZ) 

If you're struggling with energy costs, Work and Income may be able to help - even if you're not on a benefit. They offer: 

  • One-off payments to help with urgent bills. 
  • Winter Energy Payments (from May to October) to help keep your home warm during the colder months. 

Phone: 0800 559 009
Website: workandincome.govt.nz(external link) 
 

StudyLink (for students) 

If you're a student having trouble paying your power or water bills, StudyLink may be able to help with a one-off payment. 

Phone: 0800 88 99 00
Website: studylink.govt.nz(external link) 

Bill disputes or other problems 

Utilities Disputes Ltd is a free, independent service that can assist you with any disputes, complaints or other problems you may have with electricity, gas or water providers.  

Utilities Disputes (external link)

 

Free, easy changes you can make at home to help

Sometimes a few small changes at home can help cut your energy costs. We’ve got tools and tips to help you keep your bills as low as possible, especially over winter. 

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