Counties Energy Powers Up Winter Wellbeing for Local Whānau

Counties Energy is proud to continue its support of the Warmer Kiwi Homes programme, in collaboration with the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA), helping local families stay warm and healthy through the colder months. This year, the programme will again deliver free heat pumps and insulation to eligible households across the region – a powerful step toward tackling energy hardship in our communities.

Since joining the initiative in 2020, Counties Energy has helped insulate close to 200 homes in areas including Pukekohe, Waiuku, Tuakau, Port Waikato, Drury and southern Papakura. This ongoing support reflects the company’s strong commitment to making a real difference in the lives of those most in need.

Counties Energy General Manager Commercial and Corporate Affairs Andrew Toop says the Warmer Kiwi Homes initiative is making a real impact in the lives of local families.  “We’re here for our communities – not just as an energy provider, but as a partner in well-being.  Through Warmer Kiwi Homes, we’re helping whānau reduce energy costs while improving their comfort, health and resilience throughout winter and beyond.”

The programme provides free home insulation and heat pumps to homeowners who meet specific criteria, with the goal of creating warmer, drier and more energy-efficient homes. Local provider Greenside Energy Solutions continues to support the delivery of this initiative throughout the region.

“Having a warm and healthy home shouldn’t be a luxury,” says Toop. “Programmes like this ensure that energy efficiency and comfort are within reach for more Kiwis, especially during the times they need it most.”

To find out if you’re eligible, visit www.warmerkiwihomes.govt.nz or  www.greenside.co.nz.

Beyond the Warmer Kiwi Homes programme, Counties Energy continues to lead meaningful initiatives that ease energy hardship and support the well-being of those who need it most. This winter, the company is proud to shine a spotlight on its newest collaboration – with Well Women Franklin, a local charity supporting māmā and whānau in vulnerable circumstances.

Counties Energy has partnered with Well Women to deliver Winter Wellbeing Packs, carefully designed to meet the unique needs of local women, including single mothers, expectant mums, whānau with young pēpi, families caring for children with disabilities, and those navigating financial hardship.

Each woman was personally consulted to understand what would make the biggest impact in her home. The resulting packs include warm pyjamas, blankets, energy-efficient appliances like slow cookers or air fryers, and eco light bulbs to help lower power bills –  all tailored to bring warmth, comfort, and dignity into everyday life.

“We’re humbled to support the incredible mahi of Well Women Franklin,” says Toop. “Their work uplifts some of the most vulnerable members of our community, and we’re honoured to contribute in a way that’s practical and deeply personal.”

Established in 2009, Well Women Franklin Trust provides life-saving peer support for women experiencing antenatal and postnatal distress. As a community-based charity, they urgently need funding and backing to continue their vital services. Counties Energy encourages others to support their kaupapa – for more information go to www.wellwomen.org.nz.

In addition to this, Counties Energy continues its Winter Warmer Pack initiative with Mai Lighthouse (formerly Franklin Family Support Services), distributing essential items to families in need across the region, and EnergyMate – an award-winning energy efficiency education programme.