Winter Warmer Packs return with strong demand

Winter is almost here, and with ongoing cost-of-living pressures impacting local households, demand for Waipā Networks’ Winter Warmer Packs continues to grow.

Each year, Waipā Networks partners with community organisations and local businesses to deliver its Winter Warmer Packs across the Waipā district and surrounding areas. This year, 150 packs will be distributed, providing support to help households stay warm, fed and connected through the colder months.

A 25% increase in nominations compared to 2025 highlights the growing importance of the initiative, with strong demand reflecting the challenges many families are currently facing.

Waipā Networks General Manager Customer and Community, Anna Watson, says the initiative is a simple but meaningful way to support people in the community.

“Winter can be a tough time for many households, particularly with ongoing cost pressures. These packs are one way to help ease some of the burden people face during the colder months,” says Watson.

The initiative is delivered in partnership with Ko Wai Au, Cambridge Community House and Kainga Aroha, who play a key role in identifying and reaching households that would most benefit. Local businesses and other community organisations also contribute to the initiative, reinforcing the collective effort behind the packs.

“This is very much a community-led approach,” Anna explains. “By working alongside organisations who are closely connected to whānau, we can ensure the support is reaching the right people in a way that is respectful and effective.”

Each pack includes a range of items designed to provide warmth, nourishment and comfort, helping to ease some of the seasonal pressure’s households experience during winter.

Daniel Harrison, General Manager of Cambridge Community House, says the Winter Warmer Packs make a meaningful difference in the community.

“I would like to extend our sincere thanks to Waipā Networks for their community-led Winter Warmer Pack initiative.

“At a time when many whānau are facing ongoing cost-of-living pressures, these packs provide meaningful and practical support. Not only are they warmly received, but they also help families redirect limited resources toward essentials like food and power.

“Over the years, we’ve seen just how valued these packs are. They offer comfort, encouragement, and a genuine sense of care during the toughest winter months, while strengthening connections within our community,” says Harrison.

With nominations now closed, this year’s Winter Warmer packs will be packed and delivered soon to collection points across our coverage area.

“This initiative continues to grow each year because the need is real,” Watson says. “As a locally owned network, supporting the wellbeing and resilience of the communities we serve is an important part of how we create value beyond delivering electricity.”