Need help budgeting for Christmas and beyond?
We all know that the lead up to Christmas can be financially stressful. Juggling expectations from kids between what they want and what you can afford, to who’s going to buy the turkey or the ham for Christmas lunch.
If you’re look for help to organise your budget for Christmas and beyond, but don’t know where to start, you’ve come to the right place. Kiwis have access to some great budgeting advice and assistance from a range of different sources, including government agencies, non-profit organisations, and financial experts. The key is to find the right one that works for you.
Here we’ve put together some options for you to consider looking into.
Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB)
CAB offers free budgeting advice to New Zealand residents. They can provide you with information and resources to help you manage your finances effectively. Check out their website to find your nearest CAB office.
Sorted is New Zealand’s free (government funded) independent online guide that offers tools, calculators, and resources to help you create and manage your budget. It also provides information on a range of financial topics, such as savings, investing and getting out of debt.
MoneyTalks is a free financial helpline that provides confidential budgeting advice and information. You can reach them by calling 0800 345 123 or visiting their website.
Local Community Organisations
Many local community organisations and social service agencies offer budgeting advice and support for individuals and families in need. Check with your local council or community Facebook page for recommendations.
Financial Advisers
You may want to consider talking to a qualified financial advisor or planner for personalised budgeting advice. They can help you create a financial plan tailored to your specific goals and circumstances.
Work and Income New Zealand (WINZ)
If you are experiencing financial hardship, you may be eligible for assistance from WINZ. They can give you information about financial assistance and support, such as benefits and allowances.
Debt Consolidation Services
If you are struggling with debt, organisations like the New Zealand Federation of Family Budgeting Services can provide advice on debt management and consolidation. Additionally, talk to your loan provider, in some circumstances they may be able to vary or extend the terms of your loan. By extending the term of your loan it may be possible to reduce your regular repayments. However, the trade-off is that you will be paying off your loan for longer.
Financial Workshops and Seminars
Keep an eye out for financial workshops and seminars in your area. These events are often free and hosted by financial experts who can provide valuable budgeting insights.
Online Resources
In addition to the above linked websites, there are a number of online resources, blogs, and podcasts dedicated to personal finance and budgeting. Websites like Interest.co.nz and The Happy Saver offer lots of information and are a good place to start. Additionally, there are some great budgeting apps available that can track your spending and help you identify areas to focus on. Check out The Money Hub for a list of popular apps and find one that suits you.
Books and magazines
Head to your local bookshop or library, and look for books or magazines by New Zealand authors that focus on personal finance and budgeting.
Remember, budgeting is a personal journey, and the right source of advice for you will depend on your individual circumstances and needs. It’s also important to be cautious of anyone offering financial advice who is not qualified or reputable. Always verify the credentials of financial professionals and seek advice from reliable sources.
If you have a loan with Oxford Finance and are experiencing an unforeseen change in your financial situation, please don’t leave it too late to call us on 0800 88 44 66.