2652 days ago

Budgeting & How do I avoid getting into unmanageable debt?

The Team from Citizens Advice Christchurch Area

Budgeting

Where can I go for free budgeting advice?
How do I avoid getting into unmanageable debt?

Where can I go for free budgeting advice?

There are several non-profit organisations that can help you with budgeting advice.

Your local Citizens Advice Bureau can help you find a budgeting service that suits your situation. Some CABs also run regular budgeting clinics.

The Financial Capability Trust website and the Family Services directory also list budgeting services and financial mentors around New Zealand.

You can also get budgeting and debt management information and advice on the Sorted website.

You might be interested in joining a local MoneyMates groups. These are support groups for people wanting to improve their budgeting skills.


How do I avoid getting into unmanageable debt?

It mostly boils down to living within your means – in other words, spending no more than the amount you earn and only borrowing money (e.g. a student loan) if you are confident of your ability to pay it back.

You can do this by putting together a budget which lists your total income and all of your expenses. You can download a budget worksheet for free from The Budgeting Hub website or the Work and Income website, or use the online budgeting tool on the Sorted website.

A budget advisory service (see above) can help you put a budget together and work out ways for you to reduce your spending or increase your income.

The Sorted website also has advice to help you manage your debt.

More messages from your neighbours
7 hours ago

Only the Sharpest Minds Will Get This Riddle… Are You One of Them?

Riddler from The Neighbourly Riddler

I twinkle and glow, guiding paths in the snow.
I’m not the sun, moon, or star in the sky,
yet on rooftops and trees, you’ll see me up high.
What am I?

Do you think you know the answer to our daily riddle? Don't spoil it for your neighbours! Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm.

Want to stop seeing riddles in your newsfeed?
Head here and hover on the Following button on the top right of the page (and it will show Unfollow) and then click it. If it is giving you the option to Follow, then you've successfully unfollowed the Riddles page.

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1 day ago

Poll: Are quality products on the decline?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Gift-giving looks a lot different these days when you can pick up super-cheap goods made overseas. But do they last?

Do you have any old items like appliances, electronics or clothing that have stood the test of time? Share below!

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Are quality products on the decline?
  • 91.8% Yes
    91.8% Complete
  • 7.3% No
    7.3% Complete
  • 0.9% Other - I'll share below
    0.9% Complete
928 votes
13 hours ago

Appointments available

Nancy from Foot and Nail Services Limited

Hi neighbours,
Just to say the Christmas season is nearly here and if anyone out there is needing their feet tidied up please feel free to text or phone me on 0220451091 for an appointment.
Nancy Yates RN
Footcare Nurse