The upside of our digital world

We often hear about the downsides of spending so much time online — from endless scrolling to the way it can eat into our sleep or our time outdoors. But for all the warnings, the digital world has also brought us some undeniable benefits that have made everyday life easier, more connected and, in some cases, more affordable.

Breakfast that comes to you!
Te Atatu Toasted fans can simply hop online to get their favourite, healthy breakfast cereal delivered to their door. And if you don’t want to worry about what to buy for breakfast, sign up for a monthly subscription – you will save up to 25 per cent on your order and never run out of cereal again! Plus, our website gives you access to heaps of yummy recipes that you canmake with your Te Atatu Toasted muesli!

Staying connected — wherever we are
Perhaps the biggest gift the internet has given us is the ability to stay in touch with friends and whānau, no matter where they are. Whether it’s a quick message, a video call with the grandparents, or sharing photos from a special event, digital tools help us bridge the gap between time zones and distances. For many, this connection became a lifeline during COVID lockdowns — and it remains a comfort for those with loved ones overseas.

Information at our fingertips
Gone are the days of waiting for the library to open or digging through phone books for answers. Now, if you want to check whether your recycling is being collected this week, find out more about a health concern, or plan the perfect overseas trip, the information is just a few clicks away. We can compare options, check reviews and even watch videos to make more informed decisions — all without leaving the couch.

Entertainment on demand
Streaming services have transformed the way we enjoy TV, movies, and music. Instead of waiting for a weekly episode, we can binge-watch a whole series over a weekend (and yes, we’ve all done it). Music platforms let us listen to almost anything we want, from classic hits to the latest releases, instantly. And with the explosion of podcasts and audiobooks, our entertainment choices have never been broader.

Affordable fitness
The internet has made keeping fit more accessible than ever. Online exercise videos and live-streamed classes can be far cheaper than a gym membership — and they cut out the travel time. From high-intensity workouts to gentle yoga, there’s something for every fitness level, and you can do it all from the comfort of your living room.

Booking made easy
Remember when booking a holiday meant phoning multiple travel agents or standing in line? Now we can book flights, accommodation, and even tickets to concerts and shows in minutes. We can see availability in real time, compare prices, and grab the best deals without the paperwork and hassle.

Shopping from the couch
Online shopping has opened the doors to products and brands from all over New Zealand. Whether it’s a rare book, a particular style of shoe, or a specialist kitchen gadget, it’s now possible to have it delivered to your door from almost anywhere in the country. And for everyday groceries, online ordering means you can skip the supermarket queues — a blessing for busy households.

Learning made simpler
Digital advances have also transformed education and personal development. From online courses and webinars to step-by-step tutorials, there’s an opportunity to learn almost anything. Want to master sourdough bread, improve your photography skills, or even learn a new language? The resources are right there, often for free.

A balanced perspective
Of course, none of this is to say we should spend all our waking hours in front of a screen. Balance matters — for our health, our relationships, and our wellbeing. But recognising the ways technology can enhance our lives helps us see it not as an enemy, but as a tool we can use wisely. The trick is to embrace the parts that genuinely improve our connections, convenience, and choices, while keeping an eye on how much time we spend online.

Digital life has its pitfalls, sure — but it also has plenty to offer. With a thoughtful approach, we can enjoy the best of both worlds.