Christmas is always a busy time of year for the Tauranga Community Food Bank and this year the demand is greater than ever. But not for the reason you may expect.
"I don't think it's because of Covid," manager Nicki Goodwin said.
"During the year we were definitely busier because of Covid and we've still got new clients that are because of Covid, but the reality is the hardship has got harder.
"The cost of living hasn't improved, wages haven't really gone up, benefits haven't increased for a lot of people, single people trying to survive on their own are doing it toughest of all."
Goodwin said a lack of affordable housing was having a big impact in the community.