306 days ago

Setting and achieving your financials goals.

Sharon Grant from Budgeting Services North Canterbury

In August 1979, almost 46 years ago, our service was established in Rangiora.
Since then our service has been at the heart of the communities of the Waimakariri and Hurunui. Our free service is available to all New Zealanders.
Our passion is in advising and mentoring individuals, and their families, in creating and maintaining a sustainable budget.
Our wraparound support agencies are just a phone call away. We often refer clients to local support agencies who are better placed to deal with depression, addictions, housing needs, transport issues etc.
However, we’re very good at just listening and holding your hand….especially when you’re having a wobbly moment.
Not knowing where your money is going to and not being able to manage or service your debt (big or small) can be very stressful. Without judgement, our trained, professional Financial Mentors will help and guide you through the process.
Would you like some assistance with any of the following?
•Create a sustainable budget, set realistic and achievable goals. Turning dreams into reality?
•WOFF – Warrant of Financial Fitness – a review of your budget and general advice.
Maybe there are simple ways you could trim your spending or increase your income. Two pairs of eyes are better than one. A huge “well done” if you’re totally on top of it all!
•Compiling a Debts Schedule and a Cashflow will give you a better understanding of your payments and commitments. Knowing (who and what you owe) is better than wondering and stressing because you can’t remember it all.
•A free Credit Check will be another tool we’ll explain to you.
•Learning about Buy Now, Pay Later schemes - the good and the bad. Can you make it work for you?
•Advocacy is an area in which we excel. If you’re having challenging times communicating with various agencies, we will provide the necessary guidance and support. We’ll accompany you to any of the local agencies e.g. W&I.
In any instance, if a deadlock is reached, we will, with your permission, approach the relevant authority or Ombudsman for their assistance.
oMSD/Work & Income
oBanks
oCreditors etc. etc. etc.
oKiwisaver Hardship Withdrawals, Good Shepherd Loans, No Asset Procedures, Debt Repayment Orders, Bankruptcy – After completing a budget worksheet and debt schedule, and, if there are no other options suitable for your situation, we will help you to complete the application.
If you need help with insolvency documents or want to understand your consumer rights, our team of Financial Mentors have the expertise to help you improve your situation.

Sharon Grant, Service Manager of BSNC says: “It’s a real privilege to be able to support families to improve their financial wellbeing. We have received wonderful feedback from people delighted to finally repay long-term debts and who are now able to save for the first time in their lives. Talk to us about your situation, we’d be glad to help you to budget better.”
Phone or email to talk about your situation:
03 315 3505 or email: servicemanager@bsnc.org.nz
We’re on Facebook and www.bsnc.org.nz...
Our office is in the War Memorial Hall, 1 Albert Street, Rangiora.

More messages from your neighbours
4 days ago

Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙

One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.

So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?

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Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
  • 59.6% Yes, supporting people is important!
    59.6% Complete
  • 26% No, individuals should take responsibility
    26% Complete
  • 14.4% ... It is complicated
    14.4% Complete
909 votes
5 days ago

A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜

The Riddler from The Neighbourly Riddler

Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!

If you multiply this number by any other number, the answer will always be the same. What number is this?

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11 days ago

Have you got New Zealand's best shed? Show us and win!

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

Once again, Resene and NZ Gardener are on the hunt for New Zealand’s best shed! Send in the photos and the stories behind your man caves, she sheds, clever upcycled spaces, potty potting sheds and colourful chicken coops. The Resene Shed of the Year 2026 winner receives $1000 Resene ColorShop voucher, a $908 large Vegepod Starter Pack and a one-year subscription to NZ Gardener. To enter, tell us in writing (no more than 500 words) why your garden shed is New Zealand’s best, and send up to five high-quality photos by email to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz. Entries close February 23, 2026.

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