Fuel prices have been climbing again, and while the most obvious impact is at the petrol station, the flow-on effects are starting to reach much further. Recent global events, particularly conflict in the Middle East, have pushed oil prices higher, creating pressure across supply chains and everyday costs in New Zealand. What’s driving the increase? […]
Category Archives: Financial Wellbeing
Why early-year financial pressure feels heavier for many households
For many households, financial pressure can feel particularly noticeable in the early months of the year. Even after the holiday period has passed, a combination of seasonal expenses and ongoing cost-of-living pressures can place strain on household budgets. Recent research and reporting suggest that despite easing interest rates, many New Zealanders continue to feel stressed […]
Quick money wins for 2026
A new year brings the chance to reset, refocus and make a few simple improvements that can have a lasting impact. When it comes to your finances, even small steps can make a real difference. Here are some easy wins to help you start 2026 on the right foot. 1. Check your automatic payments and […]
Are your financial habits still serving you in 2025?
With household costs like food, rent, and power still running high, it’s easy for small financial shifts to slip under the radar. You might not notice them at first: a slightly higher food shopping bill, a new streaming subscription, or petrol that never quite stretches as far. But over time, these changes can reshape your […]
Riding the ups and downs: Making sense of market volatility
If you’ve been watching your investment or KiwiSaver balance and noticed it’s dipped recently, you’re not alone. Market ups and downs—also known as volatility—can feel unsettling, especially when the news is full of talk about inflation, interest rates, and global uncertainty. So what’s actually going on? And what should you do (or not do) when […]
Emergency funds and income protection: Your financial safety net
Life can throw unexpected challenges your way, and having a financial safety net in place can help you navigate these times with less financial stress. Combining an emergency fund with income protection insurance can be a solid strategy for safeguarding your financial wellbeing, offering both short- and long-term protection. Why an emergency fund is essential […]
How to give yourself a financial checkup
Regularly reviewing your financial situation is crucial for staying on top of your finances and working toward your long-term goals. A financial checkup helps you assess your current position, identify areas for improvement, and ensure you’re making the most of your money. By taking the time to review key aspects of your financial health, you […]
10 simple financial habits for a healthier financial future
A healthy financial future starts with small, consistent actions. By developing positive habits, you can create a strong foundation for long-term financial success. Here are ten simple habits to adopt that can make a meaningful difference. Set clear financial goals The first step is to clearly identify what you want to achieve. Whether it’s saving […]
Money lessons from 2024 to take into 2025
There’s nothing like seeing the calendar switch over into a new year to focus your mind on the lessons learnt from the previous 12 months. You might be thinking about what you achieved, what went well and what could have been better. And if you’re setting some goals for 2025, the experience of 2024 may […]
2024 in review: Key economic lessons to take into 2025
2024 was a tumultuous year for many people. While there were bright spots – such as inflation falling back within the Reserve Bank’s target band, and interest rates coming down – tough economic times persisted. Unemployment steadily rose through the year, retail spending took a hit but lifted 0.6 percent in October, and there were […]