Blogs
What does Christmas mean to us in New Zealand?
December 2018
We ditch the snowballs and instead throw cricket balls, The Classic Kiwi Christmas is somewhat different from the rest of the world. So what is Christmas all about in New Zealand?
Seven ways to cut costs during Christmas
December 2018
Parents often find their finances under pressure during Christmas time. So here are some quick fire ways to help you cut costs on the big day.
Financial Health Check; An overview to date
December 2018
The NZCU South Financial Health Check was designed to help everyday Kiwis foster a healthy attitude towards money. We provide an overview of results to date from the self-assessed money management survey.
Investment; setting you up for a future of financial freedom
December 2018
Have you considered investment? What do you know about term deposits? We prepare you for a future of financial freedom through a prescription of savings options and sound investment strategy dedicated to the everyday New Zealander.
Tips to Avoid a Holiday Spending Hangover
November 2018
As we approach Christmas and the silly season, many New Zealanders find themselves under-prepared and overwhelmed financially. We provide common mistakes many make and some tips to avoid a holiday season hangover that spills into the New Year.
Don’t Chase the Carrot – The Dangers of Credit Card Rewards
November 2018
The exclusive extras involved in credit cards can be enticing, but is the costs and expenditure to obtain such awards, really worth it? We did the math for you.
How badly does one late payment affect my credit score?
November 2018
Comprehensive credit reporting is made up of many different aspects of your finances. So how much did defaulting on that one payment a year ago, affect yours?
Steps to improve my credit score
October 2018
How do I improve my credit score? Many factors come into play to affect your credit score. We explain what a credit score is, what you can do with it, as well as the steps involved for New Zealanders to improve their credit score and understand their creditworthiness.
Don’t let your finances scare you this Halloween
Ocotber 2018
We know one of the scariest things we all have to deal with (besides trick or treaters) is our finances. So we thought we would share a few tips on how to better manage our money so we can rest easy at night
Why NZCU South? As told by the members
October 2018
What makes NZCU South stand out from the crowd? Instead of blowing our own trumpet (this is not the humble, classic kiwi way) we have showcased some of our member appraisals – from everyday New Zealanders in a way to tell the story of us.
Celebrating 70 years of people helping people
October 2018
From its humble origins in the 1850’s in Germany to being a global movement a decade later. Credit Unions have evolved, and will keep evolving as they stick to their vision of expanding financial inclusion worldwide through the global Credit Union community.
Payday loans are growing in popularity, but not for a good reason
October 2018
There is a scary statistic that shows more and more struggling New Zealanders are turning to payday loans for financial help instead of seeking financial assistance from government agencies. Why is this and why should us Kiwis be worried?
Petrol price rises placing the Classic Kiwi under the pump
October 2018
The price of petrol is a pressing matter in New Zealand at present. The everyday, classic kiwi is under the pump. With little breathing space in our budgets, we look at ways to adapt, to free-up cash flow in anticipation of Christmas and summer holidays.
DIY do’s and don’ts for the Classic Kiwi
October 2018
‘DIY it’s in our DNA.’ Us kiwis love a DIY challenge. Big or small, it’s a chance for the everyday New Zealander to flex their DIY know-how and get stuck in with their latest home improvement project. Check out our guide of DIY do’s and don’t’s for the classic kiwi.
How to prepare for the silly season
October 2018
We are coming into the silly season where we start thinking about our holiday plans. Don’t get caught off guard this season, check out your options and see how to best prepare yourself for the chaos.
Planning Your Perfect NZ Wedding
September 2018
Planning your perfect NZ wedding, the classic kiwi wedding is an exciting time. One of the biggest, if not the biggest day of your life. One that requires considerable financial planning and budgeting to ensure that every little detail is perfect, on your special day.
Looking to increase the value of your home?
September 2018
There are so many ways you can improve the value of your house, but not all of them offer the same amount of returns. We have some renovation advice you should hear, before you pull the hammer out and get stuck into it.
Can my car be offered as security?
September 2018
Offering an asset up as security when applying for a personal loan is a great way to get a reduction on your interest rate. But not all vehicles are eligible to be accepted as security while borrowing.
When Hiccups Turn Into Emergencies
September 2018
We all experience financial hiccups from time to time. But when you encounter them all at once, those hiccups can turn into an emergency. This is why it pays to have an emergency fund handy to save you from all the hassle.
Is Cryptocurrency Still Around?
September 2018
You guys remember Cryptocurrency? It was all the rage at the start of the year. Bitcoin and Litecoin were household names. So where did they go and what are they doing now?
Scam Protection & Awareness; Phishing
August 2018
‘Phishing’ not fishing, is becoming one of the more prevalent forms of scam in today’s society. To avoid would-be scammers stealing your personal details and financial information see our guide, tailored to alert, raise awareness and preventative measures to ensure your protection and security.
Building Blocks to a Credit Score
August 2018
What’s a Credit Score and how do I build one? If you are young, you may not even have a credit score yet. It pays to know how to build a report as when it comes to borrowing, having a good score can be crucial.
Hook, Line & Sinker
August 2018
Be alert, be aware and avoid being reeled into any dodgy scheme, system, or scam that will sting your back pocket by taking notice and due caution from the alerts, warnings, examples and preventative measures you can take in the first part of our scam awareness series.
Top 10 Ways to Spend Your Day Down South
August 2018
Invercargill… What a city! Have a read of our article and see for yourself why Mick Jagger was wrong in labelling the city the way that he did.
Can I get a Personal Loan with Bad Credit?
August 2018
It’s a question we commonly hear. No definitive answer can be provided as each and every loan application is appraised on its own merit. What we can provide is some solutions and recommendations to improve the likelihood of your loan application being approved, even if you have been told, or believe that you have bad credit.
Fixed Rate vs Floating Rate Mortgage
August 2018
Buying a home is an investment, and a long-term commitment. There are plenty of questions you need to answer before making the big step. Top of the list is whether to have a fixed or a floating rate mortgage? We discuss the options here and what is the best fit for you.
Buying Your First Home
August 2018
Buying your first home is looking more like a fantasy than a future possibility. There is a lot of components involved in the process so knowing what to expect can be massively beneficial.
Our Top 10 Ways to Spend a Dunedin Day
July 2018
There is a lot more to do in Dunedin than just complain about the cold. Read our blog and find out activities you can get up to while still sticking to a budget.
Airbnb, Uber & Marketplace; the Modern Money-Makers
July 2018
Gone are the days of the lemonade stand, garage sale, sausage sizzle or car wash. It’s time to keep up with the play with our modern day money makers.
10 Fuel Saving Tips to Keep the Road Costs Down
July 2018
The classic New Zealand road trip is slowly becoming a thing of the past as the once affordable pastime is starting to take a fair chunk out of our wallets…
Uber is here, so is waving down a taxi now a thing of the past?
July 2018
Uber has quickly taken over the New Zealand public transport scene as the ridesharing platform has set up shop across most of New Zealand. Having been around in Auckland for quite a while now, Uber has expanded the reach of its services by venturing down south…
10 Smart Money Moves to Make in Your 20’s
July 2018
Your 20’s are a time for laying the foundation for the lifestyle you want to lead today and for your future. Personal finance objectives should be front and centre here, held in the same level of regard as career, relationship, and lifestyle objectives.
Teaching Future Generations about Money Management through Timeless Sayings
July 2018
There is a good reason why many money sayings exist and are repeated day-to-day, from generation-to-generation. Albeit cheesy and perhaps overused, they are tried and true approaches to money management. They do work. We can and should learn from them.
Why Payday Loans Are Bad
July 2018
Payday loans seem like a convenient product for people who need it. But are they as helpful as they make themselves out to be?
How to Keep Your Costs Low While Your Family Continues to Grow
July 2018
Having a new addition to the family is never cheap, especially when it’s your first. Here is some easy tips that will help lower the cost while your family grows.
Are You Damaging Your Finances?
June 2018
Many people are unintentionally causing harm to their personal finance situation without even realising it. Read on for some steps that you can make so that you can maintain control of your financial situation and ensure you stay ahead of the curve.
Avoiding the Debt Cycle
June 2018
Avoid the Debt cycle. Sometimes debt can be good, but if you can’t manage it correctly then it can get the better of you. Use these simple tips to get out of the cycle.
Personal Finance Questions to Ask Yourself
June 2018
Debt on your mind? Set yourself on the path to success and ask yourself the questions that follow, and ask them often to ensure you can rectify your situation and stay in control and on the path to financial freedom.
KiwiSaver, How a Dollar Saved is More than a Dollar Earned
June 2018
A KiwiSaver, for most of us is the financial tool we use to save for our first house or for retirement. So with it having such an impactful bearing on our life, you might want to ask yourself, “Am I truly utilizing mine?”
Building Wealth with a Home Renovation Loan
June 2018
Are you in the market for home renovation? Looking to modernise your kitchen, upgrade your bathroom, a new bathroom, outdoor deck, a garage or simply aiming to preserve any general wear and tear? Then read on to check out some pointers on what a home renovation loan can do for you and how you can get the best bang for your buck.
What is Loan Protection Insurance & Do I Need it?
June 2018
Loan protection insurance works as a protection for your finances, and it can cover a wide range of unfortunate circumstances that could put a burden on your ability to repay the loan yourself. It is often a product we only think about when it is too late, so we thought we would provide the information here so that you can think seriously about the matter.
Savings Accounts vs Term Deposit, what is the best fit for you?
June 2018
Saving money does not need to be complicated. Whether it be a savings account, or a term deposit, we work to find the best fit for you. So that you can sit back and watch your hard-earned money grow, while staying in touch with your financial goals.
Know Your Debt
June 2018
Know your debt! Borrowing money comes in many different forms and we all have to do it eventually. It pays to know what your options are, so you can ensure the right deal is made when its time to borrow.
4 Tactics to Help You Repay Your Personal Loan ‘On your Terms‘
June 2018
You’ve been approved for a personal finance loan. Great news! Now comes the challenge of repaying the loan to your finance provider. Read on to see 4 tactics you can take to repay your personal loan on your terms so that you remain in control and on top of your personal finance situation.
5 Tricks to Allow you to Treat
May 2018
“I’ve been good, I deserve to treat myself.” Yes, we’ve all used it at least once sometimes with reason and others times as an excuse. We propose a few methods to help keep spending habits in check.
How to Get a Personal Loan in New Zealand
May 2018
Getting a personal loan in New Zealand is quickly becoming a straightforward and easy process thanks to the use of the internet. So since general operations are shifting to the online environment, we figured we should give everyone an update on how the personal loan process in New Zealand is done.
9 Wise Moves to Make with Your Tax Refund
May 2018
Tax Return season is here! Check out 9 ways to make sure your money works for you, to set you in a better financial standing for your future.
Top Financial Apps to Check Out
May 2018
There are thousands of apps out there that help us with our money, so compiling a list and ranking them in order would’ve proved a rather difficult task. Instead, we have compiled a simple list of six mobile financing apps, in no particular order, that we believe could help you with your budgeting and savings needs.
How Do You Feel About Debt? part two
May 2018
How do you feel about debt? We take a step back, looking at the range of perspectives one may have on debt and how it is that you can use, manage or organise debt to help shape and inform your understanding and attitude toward debt.
How Do You Feel About Debt?
May 2018
How do you feel about debt? We take a step back, looking at the range of perspectives one may have on debt and how it is that you can use, manage or organise debt to help shape and inform your understanding and attitude toward debt.
The Truth Behind Interest-Free Financing
May 2018
0% financing or interest-free loans sounds like a dream to many of us. Get to borrow money and not have to worry about paying any additional costs back, how good is that? Well, it’s not all as easy and wonderful as it may seem.
31 Tips to Tame Your Supermarket Bill
May 2018
One of the easiest ways you can save your hard-earned money is at the supermarket. Check out our go-to Supermarket-Savers that will pay dividends at your next supermarket visit.
Top 10 Tips When Purchasing a Car
April 2018
With winter fast approaching, the conditions on the road are becoming dangerous. So making sure you have the right car for the job, is essential.
12 Tips for Staying Warm this Winter Without Blowing the Budget
April 2018
In anticipation of single-digit temperatures and the cooler period ahead we provide a guide to stay warm in your home this winter, without blowing the budget.
Time to Re-think The Way You Manage Your Money
April 2018
Tracking where you spend your hard earned income takes time and discipline. Re-thinking your money management helps you refresh your finances and gets you back on track.
Is There a Difference Between Banks and Credit Unions?
April 2018
We thought we would do some of the research for you and explain some of the differences that separate credit unions from banks.
What Money Lessons do you wish you had started earlier in life?
March 2018
Upon reflection of past major decisions you have made, there is often a feeling of “I wish I had done this better” or “If only I had known to…” This certainly holds true with major financial decisions we make. What financial lessons would you preach to your younger self?
7 Benefits of a Debt Consolidation Loan
March 2018
We’ve figured you probably heard from us enough times to know what we are talking about when we say, “Some things are just better together.” Yes, we say it a lot, so we thought, it’s about time we give everyone an update as to why “it’s just better.”
Kiwi Travel Must Visit Bucket List Locations
March 2018
Travelling our nation is something we should aim to do a bit more often. We recommend adding these attractions and locations to your bucket list as they are genuinely phenomenal experiences that you have to witness in person.
5 Personal Finance Questions To Ask Your Partner
March 2018
While money does not always bring happiness, it could be contested that how we manage and utilise our personal finance certainly does have a major role in the lifestyle we lead. Here are 5 questions you must ask your significant other regarding personal finance. You owe it to your relationship.
8 Reasons Why An Emergency Fund Should Be On Your Financial Radar
March 2018
The benefits to building an emergency buffer are countless – from allowing freedom and greater leeway with our budget through to our mental wellbeing and reduced anxiety. We look at some of the key benefits of having and maintaining an emergency fund.
7 Things You Should Do Before Getting A Personal Loan
March 2018
We know there is the saying that you learn best when you learn by your mistake’s. But when it comes to your finances, we think it’s best not to risk it.
Do You Have Everything in Order For When You Go?
February 2018
Only half of New Zealand adults have a will, and only 20% of those under forty have one. Writing a will is an important task that all kiwis should consider.
Top tips for managing your time and money
February 2018
Time and money. Two of the things we all wish we had more of. Simply put, the guide that follows provides a two birds, one stone type of approach to look at how we can maximise our time and money. To effectively budget smarter, in terms of both our time and money.
25 Rules You and Your Flat Mates Must Follow
February 2018
With the beginning of University looming and all the students moving back into their new flats, we thought it might be the right time to pass on some knowledge of the unspoken rules of flatting…
Saving – how much is enough?
February 2018
A dollar saved is better than none at all. Working from that mindset we look at how the 50-30-20 budget rule can be used to get you on the path to savings satisfaction.
Who, What, When, Where, & Why of Student Flatting & How you can avoid a diet of 2-minute noodles
February 2018
It’s that time when students roll back onto campus and take up residence in a range of abodes. Read on to discover our tips for surviving student flatting.
How Important is it to Offer Security, While Borrowing Money
February 2018
When it comes to letting your friends borrow your possessions, you tend to want to receive something, in order to guarantee a safe return…
To Pay Off Debt or To Save?
February 2018
Simple answer is to strive for both. We present the case for each option – clearing debt or boosting savings, and better yet, how to maintain these habits, preserving optimal ground of staying debt-free (as best as we can manage) while still making heartening contributions to your savings account.
Riding Solo For Valentine’s Day? Well Here is 14 Ways to Spend the Day
February 2018
Whether you plan on binge watching Netflix in either self-pity or pride, it is entirely up to you as when it comes down to it at the end of the day. Valentine’s is completely made up…
Christmas Saver – What Our Members Have To Say
January 2018
We could go on and on about the benefits of an NZCU South Christmas Saver account. Instead we asked what our members thought. See what you’re missing out on
14 Date Ideas That Keeps Valentine’s Day Simple
January 2018
Valentine’s Day has become such a commercialised event, that it now costs a small fortune to try to create a memory that is similar to what we see on T.V. It, however, doesn’t have to be costly to show your significant other that your care.
Christmas Saver – The Answer to your Christmas Finance Woes
January 2018
An NZCU South Christmas Saver account is designed specifically for Christmas spending. To lessen the load of the silly season, to make your next Christmas that much easier and even more special.
Debt Snowball or Avalanche, What’s the Best Way to Tackle Your Debt?
January 2018
Would you rather start off small and build it up slowly or hit it big with urgency and get it over and done with? Today we will talk about the pros and cons of both these debt repayment methods so that you have a better idea as to which one would work for you.
This year I’m going to travel to…
January 2018
Why not make 2018 the year you pull the trigger and finally make the decision to take the holiday you have been dreaming about. To make this happen,
Top 56 New Zealand ‘Better Together’ Pairings
January 2018
We know that some things are just better together than they are on their own. So that’s why we went ahead and comprised a list of the top Kiwiana pairings that we were able to brainstorm during one of our morning teas.
New Year, New Financial Me
January 2018
With a ‘new year, new me’ mentality we provide you several options to consider, to help you achieve your personal finance goals for 2018.
Top 10 Tips to Protect Yourself Online In 2018
January 2018
With all these processes being done through the power of the mighty web, it makes you ask yourself, how safe are we from cyber-crime and hackers?
Let’s stick to our New Year Resolutions for more than 2 weeks in 2018…
December 2017
As the clock strikes midnight and we progress into 2018, this acts as a point of self-reflection and we instantly seek ways to improve ourselves and our habits moving forward. We look at ways to stick to your ambitious plans to avoid abandonment after a couple weeks, like last year (and every other year)
10 Tips to Pack It All This New Years
December 2017
We always want to pack our new toys and joys as we wish to show them off to all our friends and family. So one’s ability to fully utilise the limited space they have in their suitcase, comes into play here, as our skill level dramatically affects how much we can take away with us.
50 Classic New Year’s Resolutions
December 2017
Every man and his dog has their take on New Year’s Resolutions and they’re about as customary as a Lynx Africa Shower Set under the Christmas Tree so without further ado, let’s look at our 50 New Year’s resolutions that could potentially, no, without a doubt make your 2018 even bigger and better than you could possibly imagine.
New Year; New Me, New Home
December 2017
New Year is a time to roll over a new leaf, for optimistic resolutions and a time for change to occur. We could talk about joining a gym or becoming paleo for 2018 but instead we will look into a change of scenery, change in address and the steps involved in minimising the stress of moving home over the holiday period.
Comprehensive Credit Reporting; the Nuts & Bolts
November 2017
A credit score is fundamentally your financial CV that tells whether you are worthy of taking on credit. A Comprehensive Credit Report is a balanced review of your credit history looking at both the negative and the positive. This is good news if you’re wanting to apply for credit, which you will almost inevitably do at some point.
Need to Improve Your Credit Score? A Debt Consolidation Loan Might Be Your Saviour
November 2017
A debt consolidation loan, which is a loan that consolidates your debt into one easy manageable loan, could be the tool that could help you improve your credit score.
Credit Score; your form guide. Would you back yourself?
November 2017
Your Credit Score matters. Whether you are facing the prospect of applying for a mortgage for your first home, indeed a personal loan, credit card or even a new job, your credit score tells the story of you. A credit score provides an account of your history, dependability and control. Effectively, whether you are worthy in the eyes of financial institutions, prospective landlords, and employers alike when deciding to offer you credit, a tenancy, or even a job.
Avoid the New Year Hangover With a Debt Consolidation Loan
November 2017
Christmas presents, New Year accommodation, travel expenses and slush funds. It’s these expenses that we are preparing for as the joyous holiday season fast approaches. With all these cost burdens falling at once, we tend to reach out to our credit cards and debit cards to help us through. But relying on this option alone, doesn’t always pay off.
7 Gram-Worthy North Island Destinations for the Summer Holiday You Deserve
November 2017
It’s now time to identify our 7 go-to, Gram-Worthy North Island destinations for the holiday season. So fill the chilly-bin, load up the car and hit the road with your favourite playlist raging throughout. Whether you are with your mates or family, surfing or sun-bathing, call it a bach or a crib, it’s time to experience the best of summer, creating lasting memories along the way.
DIY This Summer? Here’s 7 Money Saving Tips You Should Know
November 2017
With summer around the corner and Christmas fast approaching, we are getting into that time of year where we decide our kitchen isn’t quite doing it for us now, or the colour of our house doesn’t look right anymore. That’s right. We are transitioning into the traditional Kiwi DIY season.
7 Gram-Worthy South Island Destinations for the Summer Holiday You Deserve
November 2017
The mercury is rising, barbeques lighting up, backyard cricket battles, sun, sand, and sunscreen. And of course, god-awful Christmas carols are playing in every store you set foot in! Summer is well and truly here and now is the time to plan the summer break you deserve. Here are 7 holiday destinations that you better capture on Instagram this summer. #nofilter necessary
Before you think about buying a car, read this
November 2017
New vs used, the age old decision many of us have faced when trying to buy a car. Used cars are cheaper, but new cars are shinier, this internal conflict of weighing up the pros and cons has puzzled many individuals before us.
What’s Better For Me, Credit Card or Personal Loan?
November 2017
How many times have we fallen into the trap of simply saying, “Chuck it on the card!” With various products being shown to us every time we turn the corner or even log in online, we are often finding ourselves reaching for money that we don’t currently have.
5 Simple Tips to Manage Your Money & Take Control
November 2017
Us Kiwis are a simple breed. A spade-is-a-spade type approach is all that is necessary to un-complicate the complicated. The steps that follow, when followed diligently will allow you to confidently manage your money, to better inform your decisions. To take control of your finances
How Can Debt Consolidation Save My Life?
October 2017
A debt consolidation loan is a single loan that helps roll all your existing debt into one secure manageable payment.
5 Ways to Avoid Overspending this Festive Season
October 2017
With the imminent weight of the silly season bearing down on us all we look at 5 ways you can avoid overindulging, sorry, over-spending this festive season.
Look After Your Assets – Care for Your Car in the Cold
August 2017
Your car needs special treatment in winter. Follow these tips, keep your assets in good condition & care for your car when temperatures drop.
Money Week 2017
August 2017
Money Week is a series of financial capability focused events, and is all about getting Kiwis talking about money. It runs from 14-20 August 2017, and this year focuses on debt..
Save money on food
June 2017
Do you feel like your weekly grocery bill just keeps climbing? Are you looking for ways to save money on food? These ideas will help you save on groceries.
Save money on cleaning, don’t compromise on the clean!
June 2017
Ingenious ways to save money on your cleaning supplies and to lower your household budget, while maintaining levels of hygiene to be proud of.
How to save at the supermarket – the best grocery savings
May 2017
The second article in our Money Saving Tips series, and here we focus on how you can save your hard earned money when you go shopping. There are many opportunities to save at the supermarket, and we look at the ones most likely to work for you.