Upper Clutha’s two-tiered economy comes into stark contrast at Christmas

By Ian Maxwell, Chair Community Link Trust.

One of the most powerful things about being involved with Community Link is the connection it gives you to the ‘real’ Upper Clutha. Not the postcard-perfect version that most of the country sees, but the one where many quietly face challenges that are generally invisible to the wider community. 

Behind closed doors, many families are struggling. Sky-high rents, above average food costs, and limited access to complex health services make life difficult even for those with two stable incomes. For those in the community that don’t have resources or contacts that can make life easier at this time, the pain can be unbearable.

A Growing Region with Growing Inequality

Our population is growing rapidly, and we live in one of the most amazing landscapes, one that draws people from all over the world to both visit and live, but behind that lies a growing challenge. How do we support families in a local economy which has a number of sectors that are unable to pay their employees the living wage in one of the most expensive places to live in the country. The two facts are a reality for many employees who are struggling to make ends meet at the best of times? This is one of the great issues for our community, and not enough time from great people is spent on it. But that’s a different conversation.

What Christmas Really Looks Like for Some

With Christmas approaching, the pressure is intensifying. Families want to create a joyful holiday with special meals, gifts, moments of celebration but for many, these are luxuries they simply can’t afford. The reality is they can’t: parents are making impossible choices, wondering how to give their children a Christmas they’ll remember without falling deeper into debt.

A Community That Makes a Difference

But there’s another really positive side to our community. The Upper Clutha is also home to many generous, compassionate families who understand that food security, energy support, and access to health services are not privileges they’re essentials in living here. Many locals want a strong community where no one should go without and are keen to grab the opportunity to help, and now is the time.

Our Christmas Appeal is underway, and we’re asking everyone who can to support those who can’t. Whether it’s donating food at New World or contributing to our fundraising campaign.

To donate or learn more, visit [insert link or contact details here]. Everyone can make a difference.

 .