July is for Warm Fuzzies

Habitat New Zealand’s annual Warm Fuzzies Appeal is all about ensuring more Kiwis have a warm, dry, and healthy home, especially during winter. The appeal shared messages from Kiwi children and Habitat team members on the importance of a warm, dry, healthy home for families in New Zealand.

Nearly 30% of New Zealand households need repairs. Broken locks, leaky roofs, and mould not only let the cold in, but they also take away a sense of security. Cam is working to change that.

“This mahi has become very important to me, to try and uplift the hauora (wellbeing) of whānau in our communities,” he says.

Habitat’s home repair team educate families on keeping warm and dry, and provide the security everyone deserves.

Harvey loves his warm home. But not every child in Aotearoa has that comfort.

“My home makes me feel warm and happy by sitting in front of my fire.” – Harvey, age 10.

Right now, around 145,000 households in New Zealand heat just one room to stay warm through winter. Habitat’s Warm Fuzzies Winter Appeal helps fund simple things like heating and insulation, helping turn cold houses into warm homes.

For Lucy, it’s more than sewing. Every year, she and the team make and fit thousands of curtains to help families feel warm, secure, and healthy in their homes.

“We had an email from a mum of three. Her home was cold and damp. After we fitted lined curtains, she was so happy. Her children stopped getting sick as often.,” says Lucy.

19% of New Zealanders struggle to heat their homes, and two-thirds live with draughts. Well-fitted, double-lined curtains reduce heat loss and keep homes warmer.

Harry loves his warm, dry home. He knows warmth isn’t just about feeling cosy. It also keeps children healthy and safe.

“The things that make me feel warm and fuzzy are my bed when it’s cold, my duvet, and the heater,” says Harry.

But many Kiwi children don’t have that comfort. In Aotearoa, about 42% of households worry about dampness, and in homes with serious mould, 1 in 5 say it makes breathing worse.

Habitat’s Warm Fuzzies Winter Appeal helps families stay dry and healthy, with simple solutions like curtains, insulation, and heating.