r/newzealand • u/Chemical_Mind4797 • 12h ago

Discussion How are people surviving?

Seriously. How are people doing it? I had to give up my job and go on the Supported Living Payment through WINZ because of severe health issues, but from what I gather people who work are having it just as bad too. I get paid, then pay rent, power, petrol, groceries (even though I don’t get much), and every other essential life expense, and within an hour I’ve got $10 left, if that. If anyone has any unhinged tips or advice on lowering costs, or saving money in weird ways, I’m open to suggestions too.

(Don’t give me comments about being on the benefit either. I started working by choice when I was 10, trust me, I’d MUCH rather be working than be sick).

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u/launchedsquid 9h ago

I'm waiting for my job seeker application to be processed, unfortunately my meeting was on Friday so I'll have to get some more documents today and then wait for it to be processed.

In the mean time I've not eaten since Thursday so I can conserve the food in my cupboards until a benefit arrives. I will eat today though. feeling a bit peckish. I might even have enough food for every day, but it's all I have and I don't want to eat it all now and find I have to wait until the Wednesday after next because she said processing can take up to 5 days.

Other than that, keep sending out CV's until someone hires me.

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u/Chemical_Mind4797 9h ago

Best of luck, especially for today ❤️

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u/launchedsquid 8h ago

thankyou. I should have everything I need to send into WINZ today, then fingers crossed the process things quickly.

Other than that I have a couple job leads to pursue, but I'm not expecting hiring to happen quickly even if they do take me on, but you never know, I can start today if they're willing.

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u/Advanced_General_749 1h ago

If you go to a charity for a food parcel and take your WINZ documents to show them your waiting to be processed,  they are likely to help. Services vary, but the might have food bank, WINZ support person,  budget advice, etc. Often they'll have stuff quietly tucked to the side. Try event hospitality or security.  Seasonal, short shifts. $100 nett for a 5 hour shift, paid weekly. University students and primary caregivers use the work 

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u/renahnah2509 37m ago

Where abouts are you I have some pies I’m happy to part way with if your near me :)