This week, New Zealand has fallen into a recession. What does this mean for families living in New Zealand? Samoa Newshub has conducted research on the effects of the ongoing recession and the struggles experienced by our Samoan families in New Zealand. This gives us reason to appreciate the unique advantages of our island life. The rising cost of living has a global impact, even in our small island nation. However, we have an opportunity to rekindle our connection with the land and sea, and discover the abundance and resilience within our own villages and communities.
While our relatives in New Zealand are facing challenges from all angles to make a comfortable living, our island provides us with the opportunity to thrive on our natural resources. From gardens, farms, and fishing, our surroundings offer a variety of sustenance that can significantly alleviate the burden of rising food costs. The Harvest initiative, which has been making headlines in Samoa, serves as a perfect example of sustainable practices in cultivating our own food and ensuring our families are well-nourished during the post-Covid recovery. We are also fortunate to be in a tropical paradise where food can be grown all year round.
In New Zealand, families are struggling with increased rent and mortgage interest rates, while our island homes provide a stark contrast as they are mortgage-free. Families own abundant lands where they can not only reside but also sustain their livelihoods. Working families in NZ can barely make ends meet. One paycheck goes toward rent, which means at least two family members need to work full-time. In Auckland, the median rate for a 4-bedroom house, which can barely accommodate a Samoan family, is as high as $780 NZD. For a father working full-time at a minimum rate of $22.70 per hour, his pay would barely cover the rent, meaning another family member needs to work to make up the cost, and cover groceries and other expenses like water and power bills. Samoa Newshub spoke to a family that recently moved from Australia. The couple has 6 children, and they managed to find a six-bedroom home in Manukau City at a discounted rent of $1300 per week. Both parents work with their adult children to cover the cost.
In the islands, essential items like toiletries, power, and water are the only additional expenses, in addition to cooking necessities. Food prices continue to rise globally, which is why producing food in our own backyards is necessary. Across the sea, families are facing a tough situation. One family Samoa Newshub contacted has actually reduced their grocery expenses. They used to spend $250 per week before Covid, and now it is $150 to feed five adults in the family per week. The average power bill is around $190 per month, and water is about $90 per month. During winter, the power bill skyrockets to at least $300 per month.
In recent social media news about the Samoan harvest, the initiative appears to be the perfect recovery plan for the island nation. The fruitful results of the harvest not only bring joy to the people but also sustain life during hardships. In times of economic difficulty, the villages come together to support one another and celebrate the fruits of their labour. They are creating a strong support network of resilience to navigate the challenges of the recession. By sharing resources, skills, and knowledge, families can overcome financial hurdles and create a supportive environment where no one is left behind.
While the world, and particularly families in New Zealand, grapple with the challenges of recession and increasing costs, it is crucial to acknowledge the unique advantages and resilience within our island communities. We have the resources to support our families through economic hardships and embrace self-sustainability, thriving on our abundant natural resources.
