Need help while renting?

Lifeline is available 24/7 to provide free confidential support from qualified counsellors and trained volunteers. You can call 0800 LIFELINE (0800 543 354) or Text ‘Help’ to 4357

1737 is available 24/7 to provide free support from trained counsellors or peer support workers. Text or call 1737

The Ministry of Health also has some wellbeing tips to help you get through. You can find them here on their website

You can find a foodbank in your local area here

MoneyTalks has a tool that connects you with financial mentors from over 300 locations across the country. They provide advice to anyone who is struggling with debt, low incomes, or who wants to plan for the future.

Find a financial mentor here or talk to a mentor now over the phone or online chat

If you need help dealing with issues between you and your employer you can contact the New Zealand Council of Trade Unions using their website or calling them directly on 04 385 1334

Sustainability Trust has several free services for those living in the Wellington region to improve the health of their rental homes.

Behaviour based Wellington Home Energy Saver Assessment (WHESP)
If you are a renter in Wellington, a qualified home energy assessor will come to the rental property and take a look at things tenants can do to improve the health of their home and help to maintain a healthy home with lower energy bills. Following the home visit, the tenant will receive a report outlining the findings and recommended actions. Book here

Warm Fuzzies Home Assessment
If you are a renter living in the Wellington region and have a Community Services Card or SuperGold Combo Card, or has high energy bills that are hard to stay on top of, or has children under the age of 14 living there, this service is available. A healthy homes advisor will come to the property, undertake an assessment and will provide advice (and sometimes on-the-spot installs) to improve the health of your home. They also help link the tenant to additional support that they might not be aware of. Book here

Wellington Curtain Bank
Through the Wellington Curtain Bank, Wellington renters with a Community Services Card, SuperGold Combo Card or renters in homes in an area identified as deprivation 8 to 10 zone can get free curtains. The curtains are made from upcycled fabric and adjusted to fit your home. This reopens in 2022, get notified when it reopens here

Tenancy Services is the Government maintained website and service for tenants, landlords and property managers. You can read about your rights on their website or give them a call on 0800 836 262

Aratohu is a website developed and maintained by CAB and the Tenant Advocates Network (TAN). It’s the place to visit for support and guidance for tenants and their advocates.

If you’re helping someone and want some guidance check out the Aratohu website

The Tenancy and Housing Manual was created by Community Law to help you understand your housing and renting rights.