If you cannot get essential supplies
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Getting food
If you need food, there are a number of ways to get help.
Financial assistance to get food
You may be able to get help through Work and Income. You don’t need to be an existing Work and Income client.
Urgent food needs
If your situation is urgent and you need food within the next 24 to 48 hours, you can contact a local food bank. The Ministry of Social Development is helping fund these.
Find food banks and other food assistance services in Auckland (external link)
Find food banks and other food assistance services across New Zealand (external link)
If you can’t leave your home to get food
Support may be available to get food delivered if you can’t leave your home.
You can make:
- online orders and arrangements through local supermarkets and their priority assistance service
- arrangements with family and friends to pick up food.
If this is not possible, you can also seek assistance through community groups, food banks, social service or health providers.
Contact details for these groups on the Family Services Directory (external link)
If you also need financial assistance, call Work and Income on 0800 559 009.
If you are not a New Zealand permanent resident
Help is available for eligible foreign nationals who are experiencing serious financial hardship due to COVID-19.
Getting help with urgent or unexpected costs
Work and Income may be able to help you pay for groceries or goods, if you’re on a low income or a benefit.
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