Housing costs · New Zealand
Warm home and energy help
Staying warm in winter involves two different problems: making your home more efficient, and affording higher power bills. Warmer Kiwi Homes and Winter Energy Payment address these separately.
- Official New Zealand sources
- Private · No account
Warmer Kiwi Homes
EECA's Warmer Kiwi Homes programme may subsidise insulation and heating for eligible homeowners, especially low-income households.
Warmer Kiwi Homes
- Who
- Eligible homeowners, including many Community Services Card holders in owner-occupied homes.
- Why it matters
- Can reduce the upfront cost of ceiling and underfloor insulation and approved heating devices.
- Next step
- Check regional provider availability, eligible products and whether your home already has adequate insulation.
- Renters usually need landlord agreement for structural changes. This programme targets homeowners.
- Subsidies vary by region and product. Confirm current co-funding rates before you book work.
Winter Energy Payment
An automatic extra payment for many people receiving main benefits or New Zealand Superannuation during winter months.
Winter Energy Payment
- Who
- People receiving eligible main benefits, Veteran's Pension or New Zealand Superannuation during the payment period.
- Why it matters
- Provides extra income in winter to help with heating costs. Usually paid automatically if you qualify.
- Next step
- Check whether your current payment includes Winter Energy Payment and when it starts and ends each year.
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Check benefits and supportsOfficial sources used for this guide
Sources reviewed 2026-09-10. No guessed payment amounts.