As job losses mount and Covid-19 support schemes wind down, budgeting services say there is no let up in the number people seeking help.
Immediately after the first lockdown there was no real surge in people wanting advice on managing debt or a loss of income.
As Christmas approaches, many firms are looking more closely at their cost base and families have found themselves suddenly plunged into hardship.
Here's RNZ social issues reporter, Sarah Robson.