Xero is offering free counselling sessions to more than 200,000 small business owners in Auckland even if they are not customers of the cloud accounting software firm.
Photo: RNZ
Xero managing director for New Zealand & Pacific Islands Craig Hudson said a recent business insights survey indicates businesses were under an enormous strain after more than 80 consecutive days in lockdown.
"With no clear end in sight, many are increasingly worried about their future livelihoods," he said.
"The data paints a grim picture."
The latest Xero Small Business Insights indicates sale fell more than 18 percent in Auckland, with small businesses waiting longer to be paid, which was creating major cash flow issues.
"It's an incredibly tough time to be a small business owner and it's vital they have access to wellbeing support," Hudson said.
The service had been available to Xero customers, as well as their staff an families, over the past two years.
The confidential Xero Assistance Programme is provided by Benestar by phone or through online services and can be accessed by sending a request to xap@xero.com with the name of the business.