How the Office for Seniors can help
Hi Neighbours!
Our Office sits within the Ministry for Social Development. Our role is to improve the lives of older people across New Zealand by providing helpful information, promoting the wellbeing and concerns of seniors and increasing awareness of the issues facing our ageing population. We are here to help!
For useful information, opportunities and stories about seniors, sign up to our SuperSeniors Newsletter here: bit.ly...
Read our Better Later Life strategy, which guides our work to help make the future better for New Zealanders as we age: bit.ly...
We have lots of helpful resources on getting an Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) on our website: bit.ly...
We are working on making our communities more Age-friendly. Find out about our Community Connects grants here: bit.ly...
Our website also includes important information on Elder Abuse and where to get help: bit.ly...
We know some people don't like Facebook, and that's ok. If you have an account, you can like our page for regular updates, and some fun stuff too! : www.facebook.com...
If you have a question, or would like more information, whether you are over-65, or if you have a close family member or friend who is a senior, you can email us at: osc@msd.govt.nz
We're taking the bus!
The number of Wellingtonians taking the bus and train rose by 3% last week compared to the same time last year, according to Metlink.
Not surprising given petrol prices at the moment. But if you're considering giving up your car commute for a leisurely bus ride in the mornings, it would be worth it.
It's about to get even easier: In April, e-pay will be launched, meaning you can tap on with your credit cards as well as smart devices.
It's better on the environment too: With most Metlink trains running on electricity, 25% of the bus fleet being EV’s and the Ika Rere electric ferry, Metlink is able to move more people using less fuel than any other transport option.
With fuel costs so high, it's a good idea to jump on board if you can. If you've become a public transport convert recently, how have you found it?
Poll: Should we ditch daylight saving? 🕰️
First introduced in New Zealand in 1927 with the passing of the Summer Time Act, it's what we know as 'Daylight Saving' and this year it ends on the first Sunday in April.
While we do get to sleep in this time around, some people would like to scrap the clock tinkering for good.
And why? Some evidence suggests the time changes are bad for our health as they mess with sleep patterns leading to short-term fatigue and affecting mood. Meanwhile the hour change is frustrating for farmers and a nightmare for getting the littlies to sleep. But what's your take?
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40.5% Yes - get rid of the clock changes
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57.6% No, I enjoy it
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1.9% Other - I'll share below
Alan and Hazel Kerr share Senior New Zealander of the Year Award 2026
Dr Alan and Hazel Kerr describe themselves as ‘just ordinary old Kiwis’, despite being named as the 2026 Ryman Healthcare Senior New Zealanders of the Year Te Mātāpuputu o te Tau.
The amazing couple prompted a standing ovation at a star-studded Auckland event which recognised their tireless efforts, with Alan travelling to and from Gaza and the West Bank 40 times to help children over 20 years, and Hazel travelling 20 times.
Click read more to find out more.
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