Concern is mounting for people who may struggle to pay their power bills.
File photo. Photo: 123RF
With everyone at home, and electricity usage up, bills could increase by between $6 and $10 dollars a week.
Electricity Retailers' Association chief executive Cameron Burrow said it's important anyone who is concerned about paying their bill should contact their power company and work out a payment plan.
He said there's also good government support on offer.
Burrows said they don't want to see anyone falling into debt or choosing not to heat their homes, because they can't pay their bills.
He said people who don't have access to the internet, or can't pay online and are wondering how to pay their bills, should phone their power company.
He said many companies were contacting customers directly to set up direct debits and help in any way they can.
You can also check out energymate.co.nz to find easy ways to reduce your pour power bill.