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North Shore Budget Service

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North Shore Budget Service

One to one FREE budget advice for family and individual finances. We offer free advice to help you budget and manage finances.

04/10/2026

Managing money on a fixed or limited income can sometimes be challenging. Here are some practical financial tips to help you make the most of your money and protect yourself financially.

• Check what you’re entitled to – make sure you’re receiving all the income support, supplements or other entitlements you may be eligible for.
• Split your pension into two weeks payments – if possible, set aside money for the second week and try not to touch it until then.
• Check your regular payments – review things like insurance, phone plans, subscriptions and utilities to see whether you’re still getting good value.
• Shop around – don’t automatically renew insurance or other services without checking your options.
• Plan for irregular expenses – set aside a little money for things like car repairs, rates, medical costs, birthdays and Christmas.
• Keep an emergency fund – even a small amount put aside regularly can provide a buffer when unexpected costs arise.
• Be careful with lending money to family – it’s okay to say no, and if you do lend money, make sure you understand what you’re agreeing to.
• Think carefully before becoming a guarantor – you could become responsible for someone else’s debt if they don't make the repayments.
• Don't feel pressured into financial decisions – take your time and seek independent advice if you're unsure.
• Keep important financial information secure – store important documents safely and avoid sharing personal information unless you’re sure who you’re dealing with.
• Watch out for scams – never feel pressured to give someone your passwords, banking details or money.

If you’re finding it difficult to manage your finances or would like some extra support, we’re here to help. Feel free to get in touch with us.

0800 300 577
nsbs.co.nz

30/09/2026

Having a “rainy day” fund can make things a whole lot easier when unexpected costs come up. See below for some tips on how to build your savings:

• Start small – even if you begin by saving $5 a week, this can add up over time.
• Set up an automatic payment to transfer money into your savings account on payday.
• Look for ways to reduce your regular expenses – such as subscriptions or other bills – to free up some extra money.
• Set a savings goal – saving for something specific can help keep you motivated.
• Save unexpected money – such as a tax refund, bonus or extra income.
• Don’t give up if you need to use your savings. It’s there for a reason, and you can start building it up again.

If you’d like some support with budgeting or staying on track with your finances, feel free to get in touch. Our service is completely free.

17/09/2026

Ideas for how to have a free weekend

You don’t have to spend money to have a great weekend! There are plenty of ways to enjoy yourself using what you already have.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Head out for a local walk
Have a picnic at a local park using food you already have
Visit your local library
Check out your local community house for free activities
Host a games night
Do a home workout
Listen to a podcast
Make pizzas at home using ingredients you already have

Making the most of what you already have is a great way to enjoy your weekend without spending money.

If you’d like some help with budgeting or managing your money, get in touch with us. Our service is completely free.

16/09/2026

A budget doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s simply a way to understand what money is coming in, what’s going out, and make sure you have enough for the things that matter.

Here are some basic budgeting tips to get you started:

• Live within your means – try to make sure your spending doesn’t exceed your income.
• Know what’s coming in and going out – keep track of your income and regular expenses.
• Prioritise your essentials – make sure things like rent, power, food, transport and healthcare are covered first.
• Plan for bills and irregular expenses – set aside money for costs that don’t come up every week or month.
• Track your spending – keeping an eye on where your money is going can help you identify areas where you could make changes.
• Set some savings aside – even a small amount regularly can help build a buffer for unexpected costs.
• Review your budget regularly – your circumstances and expenses can change, so it’s worth checking your budget from time to time.
• Be realistic – leave room in your budget for things you enjoy. A budget should be something you can stick to.

If you’d like some help with budgeting or managing your money, get in touch with us. Our financial mentoring service is completely free.

0800 300 577
nsbs.co.nz

14/09/2026

How to survive the current cost of living crisis

With everyday costs continuing to rise, finding ways to make your money go further can help.

Here are some practical tips to consider:

• Stretch your food budget – plan meals before you shop, stick to a shopping list and use what you already have.

• Prioritise essential expenses – such as housing, power, food, transport and healthcare.

• Choose free activities – such as a walk at a local park, a movie at home, or reading a book

• Review your subscriptions – cancel anything you’re no longer using or getting value from.

• Try a home workout instead of paying for a gym membership.

• Track your spending – knowing where your money is going can help you identify areas where you could cut back.

• Declutter and sell unused items – you may be able to make some extra money from things you no longer need.

• Build your savings – even putting aside a small amount regularly can add up over time.

• Try the 24-hour rule – wait 24 hours before buying non-essential items to give yourself time to decide whether you really need it.

• Compare fuel prices – use fuel price apps, discounts or vouchers to help find a better price.

If you’re finding it difficult to make ends meet, we’re here to help. Our financial mentoring service is completely free and confidential.

26/08/2026

Three Signs Your Budget May Need a Review

A budget isn't something you create once and never look at again. As life changes, your budget should change too.

Here are three signs it might be time to review yours:
⚠️ 1. You're running out of money before payday
If you're regularly finding that your money doesn't last until your next pay, it's worth taking a closer look at where your money is going.
⚠️ 2. Your expenses have changed
Have your rent, mortgage, insurance, power bill, or grocery costs increased recently? Major changes to your expenses can quickly throw a budget off track.
⚠️ 3. You're relying on credit to cover everyday costs
Using credit cards, overdrafts, or Buy Now, Pay Later services to pay for essentials can be a sign that your budget needs adjusting.
✅ The good news is that small changes can make a big difference. Regularly reviewing your budget can help you stay on top of your finances and avoid unnecessary stress.

Need a hand reviewing your budget? North Shore Budget Service offers free, confidential budgeting advice and support.

0800 300 577
www.nsbs.co.nz

23/08/2026

What to Do When You’re Behind on Bills

Falling behind on bills can feel stressful and overwhelming - but there are practical steps you can take to get things back under control.

Here’s what can help:

📋1. Don’t ignore it
Opening letters or checking emails early helps you understand exactly what you owe and what needs attention first.
💰 2. Prioritise essential bills
Focus first on housing (rent/mortgage), power, water, and food costs. These are the most important for daily living.
📞 3. Contact your providers
Many companies can offer payment plans or temporary arrangements if you let them know you’re struggling.
🧾 4. Make a simple list of what you owe
Write down each bill, how much it is, and when it’s due. This can make things feel more manageable.
📉 5. Look at your budget
Even small changes can help free up money to put toward overdue bills.
💡 6. Reach out for support early

The sooner you seek help, the more options are usually available.
At North Shore Budget Service, we provide free and confidential budgeting advice to help you create a plan and work through financial pressure step by step.

0800 300 577
www.nsbs.co.nz

20/08/2026

How to Have a No-Spend Weekend

A no-spend weekend is a simple way to take a break from spending money while still enjoying your time.

Here’s how to make it work:

🧠 Plan ahead
Check your pantry, fridge, and freezer before the weekend so you know what meals you can make at home.
🍽️ Use what you already have
Get creative with meals using ingredients you already own instead of going grocery shopping.
🏡 Find free activities
Walks, beach trips, parks, board games, movie nights at home, or visiting friends can all be great no-cost options.
🚫 Avoid temptation
Try to steer clear of shops, online browsing, or “just a quick look” situations that can lead to spending.
👨‍👩‍👧 Make it a challenge
Get the whole whānau involved and turn it into a fun challenge to see how little you can spend.
💡 Reflect afterwards

At the end of the weekend, take note of what worked well and how much you saved - it can be a great motivation for the future.
No-spend weekends aren’t about restriction - they’re about becoming more aware of your spending and giving your budget a small reset.

If you’re looking for support with budgeting or managing expenses, North Shore Budget Service offers free, confidential advice.

0800 300 577
www.nsbs.co.nz

18/08/2026

Foodbanks: A Community Resource When Times Are Tough

Many people experience times when money is stretched, whether due to unexpected expenses, changes in circumstances, or rising living costs. It’s important to know that support is available.

Foodbanks and community food services can provide temporary assistance to help individuals and whānau through difficult periods.

💡 If you’re finding it hard to put food on the table, reaching out for support early can make a real difference.

At North Shore Budget Service, we provide free and confidential budgeting advice and support. We can help you understand your financial situation, explore available options, and refer you to foodbanks and other community support services where appropriate.

0800 300 577
www.nsbs.co.nz

Address

Level 2, 7 The Strand
Takapuna
0624

Opening Hours

Monday	9am - 4pm
Tuesday	9am - 4pm
Wednesday	9am - 4pm
Thursday	9am - 4pm
Friday	9am - 4pm

Telephone

+64800283238

Website

https://nsbs.co.nz/

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