This topic is about the challenges of finding affordable ostomy gelling sachets in New Zealand, particularly for someone with an ileostomy experiencing watery output for many years. Here are some helpful insights and advice for navigating this situation:

1. **Sample Requests**: If you're having trouble finding gelling sachets online, try contacting suppliers directly via phone or email. Many companies are willing to send a few samples in a plain package.

2. **Supplier Information**: If a company doesn't have stock, ask them which distributor in New Zealand might carry the gelling products you're looking for.

3. **Alternative Products**: Consider inquiring about other commercial gel options such as Parasorb by Parathon, Ilesorb by Cymed, and Pearls by Trio Ostomy.

4. **Local Retailers**: Check with local retailers of your regular pouches. They might provide samples as an incentive to gain a future customer.

5. **DIY Thickeners**: Some low-cost, do-it-yourself thickeners that others have found useful include:
- Adding 2–3 teaspoons of rolled or porridge oats into the pouch using a small tube.
- Emptying a packet of Metamucil (psyllium husk) directly into the pouch.

6. **Pouch Issues**: If you're using a Coloplast SenSura Mio with a pre-filter that clogs due to liquid output, consider switching to non-filtered or manually vented bags.

7. **Communication Tips**: When requesting samples from overseas, emailing often works better than using web forms or making phone calls, especially if free phone service is not available.