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Winter hits the wallet harder than we expect- higher power bills, more food is needed at home, kids' winter clothes, and the urge to stay warm and comfortable. But with a few small shifts, you can keep your budget steady and avoid the winter money squeeze.
Warm Your Home, Not Your Whole House Heating is one of the biggest winter expenses in Aotearoa. Instead of heating the whole house, focus on one or two lived‑in rooms. Close doors, use draft stoppers, and run the heat pump efficiently (18–20°C). This alone can shave $20–$40 a week off your power bill. Winter Meal Planning = Winter Savings Winter kai tends to be heavier — and more expensive. Plan 3–4 core meals each week that stretch across multiple days: soups, curries, roast chicken, mince dishes. Buying ingredients in bulk and cooking once for multiple meals can save $50+ a week for a family. Winter Meal Planning = Winter Savings Winter always brings surprise costs — school trips, doctor visits, extra petrol, kids’ jackets. Set aside $10–$20 a week into a small winter sinking fund. It doesn’t need to be big — it just needs to be there when you need it. Winter doesn’t have to break your budget. With a few intentional habits, you can stay warm, stay fed, and stay financially steady — without stress or shame. Small steps make a big difference for you and the whole family.
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Chatting about money with your partner might not be a romantic topic to talk about, but it’s key to a stronger relationship. Did you know that money is the top stressor for couples? Yes, 31% of them say it’s a big source of conflict. Surprisingly, only about half of the couples talk about their finances regularly. So, how can you make money talk a regular part of your relationship?
Why Money Chats Matter Dscussing finances with your partner helps avoid misunderstandings and builds trust. When you're both on the same page about money goals and challenges, you can tackle them together. Here's why it's important:
To make sure money talks are easy and fun, try these tips:
Before diving into money talks, see if you're ready with this quick quiz. Ask yourself:
Regular money chats can turn finances from a stress point into a way to build a stronger partnership. By being open and positive, you can have a healthier financial relationship with your partner. Remember, teamwork makes the dream work—even when it comes to money! |
AuthorKathleen Guttenbeil-Vatuvei is our Community Development & Engagement Specialist & Community Educator and qualified Financial Mentor and Facilitator. She is a financial wellness advocate and passionate about building financial capability and helping others achieve their financial goals. She is a finance expert and has a wealth of knowledge and experience working alongside our Māori and Pasifika communities to empower individuals to get in control of their money. Archives
June 2026
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Vaiola Pacific Island Budgeting Services Trust
Empowering Pasifika communities across Aotearoa New Zealand |