How to cut down your power bill!
As we head in to winter, check out these 5 top tips for cutting down your power bill:
1. If you’re not using it, switch it off: If you’re not using an appliance, such as a heated towel, dryer, or TV, switch it off at the wall so it doesn’t use power on standby.
2. Change your cooking habits: Eat fresh veges instead of cooking. Using the oven for an hour a night can add $20 to your monthly power bill.
3. Use curtains to trap heat in: Let the sun heat your home during the day then close your curtains to stop the warmth escaping in the evening.
4. If you’re away, turn the hot water cylinder off: You can save up to $36 on your power bill if you switch your hot water cylinder off while away on weekends.
5. Make the most out of your FREE Hour of Power: Utilise power deals like Electric Kiwi’s free Hour of Power, which gives you one off peak hour of free power a day. Use this hour to heat your home, turn on the dishwasher, or run the washing machine and dryer.
Find out more about Electric Kiwi’s free Hour of Power
Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙
One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.
So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?
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59% Yes, supporting people is important!
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26% No, individuals should take responsibility
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15% ... It is complicated
Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!
Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.
A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!
If you multiply this number by any other number, the answer will always be the same. What number is this?
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