How to Save on Your Phone Costs: Cheap Phones, Plans, and Tips to Help You Save

Our phones are an integral part of our daily lives. So it’s little wonder we spend so much on them, from forking out a couple of grand on a brand new iPhone 13 to $40-plus a month for plans with endless data. But we here at Canstar thought we should provide a few tips to … Continued

Simple Guide to Finding the Cheapest Power Deals

At Canstar Blue, our mission is to help consumers discover the best deals. But sniffing out the cheapest power deals can seem complicated. To start with there are so many different power companies: 14 in Canstar Blue’s most recent ratings. And they all offer different deals! Then there is the issue of working out your … Continued

Can I Install My Own Lights Fixtures and Switches?

If you’re planning a home renovation, and want to install a light fixture or replace an old dirty switch, you might assume that it has to be the job of a professional. But not so fast. If you’re confident that you know what you’re doing, you may be able to do the work yourself. Canstar Blue … Continued

How to Clean Heat Pump Filters

Why clean heat pump filters? Before your heat pump blows warm (or cool) air throughout your home, that air passes through a filter. And if that filter is clogged full of dirt and dust, then the air isn’t going to be able to pass through it smoothly. This could lead to your heat pump not … Continued

Americano or Long Black? Different Types of Coffee Explained

Everyone has their favourite order – perhaps a latte, a piccolo, or maybe a long black. But what’s the difference?

How to Choose the Right Heat Pump and Save Money

Power costs can soar during the winter months if your household is running inefficient heating appliances. So for those looking for a more efficient alternative, heat pumps are typically a good choice. Not only are they comparatively cheap to run, but they also come with a range of settings designed to provide greater control over … Continued

Ring: New Zealand’s Choice for Home Security

Home Security isn’t a new industry, but it’s one that’s changed a lot over recent years. In the past, the go-to method of security was a hard-wired system of motion sensors throughout a home linked to an alarm. Installation was an intrusive procedure, and 24/7 monitoring could only be achieved through a subscription to a … Continued

Skinny NZ’s Cheapest Broadband Deal

Unlimited broadband at 300mbps/100mbps for $52 per month. Yep, you read that correctly: $52 per month! No frills internet provider Skinny’s new deal really is that cheap. But is it a good deal, and is it the cheapest broadband when stacked up against the competition? Up until the end of last year, the standard speed for … Continued

Best Broadband Plans for Seniors

A plan doesn’t need to be specially designed for seniors. However, there are a number of specific factors to consider when choosing the best broadband plan for seniors. It’s initially important to consider the range of activities you’ll be using the internet for, and how this may evolve over time. While we may feel most … Continued

The Best Ovens in New Zealand

Nothing says Sunday like a traditional Kiwi roast with all the trimmings. And as our cooking habits rely heavily on our kitchen appliances, it’s important that our ovens are up to scratch. Whether that means cooking a simple roast chicken perfectly, or featuring all the bells and whistles required of a budding master chef. So … Continued