Citizens Advice Bureau Support
Are you uncertain about your rights as a citizen, consumer, tenant or employee or worried about your financial situation?
The Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) offers free, in-depth advice and support no matter what your situation.
Established around the time of the Second World War in England, the volunteer organisation was initially set up to help people find lost relatives in bombed and damaged areas and to explain the ever-changing war-time rules and restrictions.
When the war ended, there was still a need for a service to help citizens clarify their rights and responsibilities.
CAB opened their first doors in New Zealand in Grey Lynn, Auckland in 1970. Now there are more than 90 CAB offices nationwide, including six in Wellington that we support through a three-year funding agreement, providing a total of $195,000 a year.
Mary O'Regan, Area Manager of Wellington CAB, says this funding is essential to their operation.
"We've got 170 volunteers working across the city, and the support we get from Wellington City Council helps us deliver a high-quality service to anyone who needs it," she says.
"No matter what kind of advice you're after - budgeting, housing, or employment - our volunteers are ready and willing to help with anything. They approach everyone with great professionalism, warmth and respect.
"Our services go way beyond just providing information. We operate in a caring and confidential manner and can help you every step of the way."
Mary says CAB has great working relationships with a host of other organisations, including the Wellington Community Law Centre, the Multicultural Resource Centre and Student Services (through Victoria University).
"We put people in touch with these other organisations when necessary and work closely with them to make sure there is no duplication of services."
The Central CAB is on the mezzanine floor of the Central Library in Victoria Street near the cafe. There's no need to make an appointment - just pop in any time:
- 9.30am - 5.15pm Monday
- 9.30am - 6.30pm Tuesday to Thursday
- 9.30am - 3.30pm Friday
- 11.00am - 1.00pm Saturday
Alternatively, you can phone (04) 472 2466 or email cab.wncen@xtra.co.nz.
There are also offices in Johnsonville, Karori, Aro Valley, Kilbirnie and Newtown where volunteers work closely with local community centres and organisations.
The CAB website is also a great source of information and particularly useful for people who can't get out and about easily.
You can also email your enquiry through the website: