Helping Southlanders Stay Warm Through Winter

Winter in Southland can be beautiful — but it can also be tough. Cold mornings, rising power bills, and older homes that struggle to hold heat can make winter especially challenging for many elderly Southlanders.

That’s why Awarua Synergy is proud to continue its partnership with Perpetual Guardian, helping Southlanders aged 65 and over access free insulation and heating support to keep homes warmer, healthier, and more comfortable through winter.

A Partnership Built Over Decades

This partnership actually has roots going back more than 21 years. Back then, the Guy Waddel Trust — administered by Perpetual Guardian — partnered with Awarua Synergy to launch the Bluff Healthy Homes Project, helping elderly Bluff residents improve the warmth and comfort of their homes.

Today, that same community spirit is still making a difference across Southland.

And it’s a reminder that thoughtful community support can continue helping people for generations.

As Perpetual Guardian National Development Manager David Boyce explains:

“Guy Waddel showed remarkable foresight by getting his affairs in order and choosing to leave a legacy that continues to benefit his community.”

“His generosity is still warming homes and lives across Southland.”

Real Support for Real People

One Southland family who recently benefited from the programme was Catherine Aerepo’s family, after her father Tei received a heat pump through the project.

“The heat pump has brought real comfort, warmth and peace of mind,” Catherine said.

“We are incredibly grateful to Awarua Synergy and Perpetual Guardian for their generosity and support in helping us get over the line under our special circumstances.”

Stories like this are exactly why programmes like these matter.

Why Warm Homes Matter So Much

Cold, damp homes can have a serious impact on health and wellbeing — especially for older people during Southland’s long winters. At the same time, rising living costs are making it harder for many households to afford adequate heating.

That’s where insulation and efficient heating can make a huge difference. A warmer, drier home can help:

• improve comfort
• reduce dampness and condensation
• support healthier living
• and reduce the stress of high heating costs

And for eligible residents, this support comes at no cost.

Local Support From a Local Team

As a Southland-owned business, Awarua Synergy has been helping improve homes across the region for more than two decades. Our team works closely with local residents to help create homes that are warmer, healthier, and easier to heat efficiently.

Because everyone deserves to feel comfortable and safe in their home during winter.

Are You Eligible?

If you’re aged 65 or over and living in Southland, you may qualify for free insulation and heating support through this programme.

As winter approaches, now is the perfect time to prepare your home for the colder months ahead.

Get in touch with us to find out whether you’re eligible and learn more about the support available.