Winter support for families

Counties Energy, in collaboration with Mai Lighthouse (formerly Franklin Family Support Services), is supporting local whānau in need with the Winter Warmer Packs initiative.
Now in its fourth year, the programme supports families experiencing energy hardship by providing winter essentials that help them prepare nutritious home-cooked meals, manage energy use, and stay warm and healthy.

These Winter Warmer Packs include energy-saving eco-bulbs, energy-efficient slow cookers and fresh produce from local grower, Wilcox, with additional items supplied by The Warehouse Group (The Warehouse Pukekohe), Rebel Sport and Mitre10 Pukekohe. Each pack features a recipe booklet compiled by students from Pukekohe Christian School, who also assisted in assembling the packs.

Counties Energy General Manager Commercial and Corporate Affairs, Andrew Toop, said the initiative is a true reflection of community spirit and collaboration.

“It’s incredibly heartening to see local organisations come together to make Winter Warmer Packs possible for our community. These packs are a practical way to support whānau in need through winter, while also encouraging long-term, energy-efficient habits that can ease financial pressure. It’s a small gesture with a big impact.”

The packs will be distributed to clients of Mai Lighthouse. Services provided by the organisation include parenting support, financial budgeting assistance, professional counselling, and social work.

Mai Lighthouse Chief Executive Robyn Driver said the initiative aims to further support the wellbeing of individuals and families who rely on their comprehensive care.

“The Winter Warmer Packs initiative continues to provide meaningful support during the coldest part of the year, thanks to the collective efforts of local organisations, volunteers and supporters.”

Alongside the Winter Warmer Packs, Counties Energy is also addressing energy hardship through other community-focused initiatives.

One of these is EnergyMate, a free in-home energy coaching service that provides personalised advice to households struggling with high power bills. The programme is designed to help families reduce energy use and improve the comfort of their homes.

Counties Energy also co-funds the Warmer Kiwi Homes programme, which offers free heat pumps and insulation to eligible households. This initiative improves home warmth, energy efficiency, and overall health and wellbeing. For more information on eligibility and how to apply, visit www.eeca.govt.nz.