Covid-19

The coronavirus crisis is an adverse event of immense proportions, and will change our lives forever.

It is difficult to believe that three months ago, we were nonchalantly celebrating Christmas, New Year and the summer holidays. Who could have foreseen the events of the last few months, and the lockdown imposed by governments across the world? It may be many years before New Zealand recovers from the Covid-19 crisis, with particular sectors of the country invariably suffering immeasurably from an economic point of view.

The effects on our retail, tourism and hospitality trades will be devastating for many businesses and employees alike. Service industries will inevitably suffer with clients having uncertain revenue streams and hence less money available to spend across the board. The short-term interruption of global trade for many of our exporters may take many years to return to its peak, and that is without factoring in a likely global recession, or possible depression. It is inevitable that across all industries that businesses will close and employees will lose their jobs.

For many, the short term issues are being cushioned by New Zealand Government intervention and spending plans, and by primary lenders taking a pragmatic view in respect of consumer debt. But at some point, those measures will to run out, and for those whose jobs have been lost, or their earnings severely depleted, the threat of defaulting on credit cards, loans, mortgages and car finance will begin to escalate. People need to start thinking about the implications on their households now, not later when they start missing payments. Proactively, seeking advice now will limit the adverse effects that many individuals, families and whānau may suffer.

Debtfix Clients

For those visitors that are already clients of Debtfix, then this is the section for you, along with visiting the other sections that are relevant to you as an employer, employee or self-employed person.

Talk to us, you know we are always available to listen.

Employee

If you are employed, worried about your job, unsure as to whether you should accept shortened hours or reduced pay, then visit this section of our Covid-19 guide.We hope that we are able to answer some of your questions, and explain some of your rights, or at least help to point you in the right direction.

Self-Employed

Working on your own account. You need to know where you stand from an income support and/or business support package. The government has provided some relief packages to help and support you. Visit this section to find out relevant information for you.

Take care of your mental health

Call or text 1737 any time, 24 hours a day if you want to speak with a trained counsellor. These are trying times for all of us, it’s okay to ask for help.