For one working mum with four teenagers and a self-employed partner, managing household and work-related travel costs is a constant balancing act.
With five cars in regular use across work, university, and family commitments, fuel expenses quickly add up.
Six months ago, the family discovered Kora through a HealthCarePlus partnership offer. HealthCarePlus is a union-owned, member benefits provider that partners with organisations to offer genuine, long-term value through exclusive services, educational resources and access to savings programs like Kora.
With two teenagers at home, two away at university, and a partner who travels for building work, the family fleet of five cars is always on the go. Her partner runs a small business and uses diesel for his work vehicle, while the rest of the family fills up with petrol for their everyday driving needs.
“We’re constantly on the road, for work, uni, and trips between Auckland and the lower North Island. Fuel is a big part of our weekly budget,” she says.
When she joined Kora through HealthCare Plus, the appeal was immediate, with a simple setup, clear savings, and wide network access across Waitomo and Mobil stations. “It was really easy to sign up, and the savings were instant. With the Kora card, I know we’re getting a discount every time we fill up.”
Since joining, the family has saved around $325, roughly $30 to $40 per month, meaning they’re on track to save more than $600 per year.
She uses the Kora app to track transactions, check fuel prices, and review monthly statements, which also help with her partner’s business accounting.
“The app makes it easy. The kids use the card and then ask me how much they owe, it keeps them aware too.”
The family now plans fuel stops more strategically, favouring Waitomo stations for their low prices and Kora discounts.
“We usually fill up at Waitomo. It’s the cheapest in town and near work, so it makes sense. When we’re travelling, we plan our stops around where Waitomo is available.”
While supermarket fuel dockets and apps sometimes offer short-term deals, she values the consistency and convenience of Kora.
“Sometimes other deals might look better, but they’re only on certain days or you have to spend a lot first. With Kora, the savings are there whenever we need them.”
For a large family with multiple vehicles, those small, consistent savings help the household budget stretch further.
“The savings just go back into the household pot, every bit helps when you’re running five cars.”
When asked if she would recommend Kora to others, she doesn’t hesitate. “Yes, because it’s easy. It just works, and the savings are real.”
