For a so-called taboo subject, New Zealanders have consistently learned most of what they know about money by talking about it - with family, friends and colleagues.
For a so-called taboo subject, New Zealanders have consistently learned most of what they know about money by talking about it - with family, friends and colleagues. Unfortunately traditional advice can be an echo chamber, so we’re sharing four blogs with a fresh take on personal finance.
NZ Muse
“Much as I love saving money (a dollar saved is a dollar earned and you won’t be taxed on it) I’ve also discovered the power of earning more along the way.”
NZ Muse was one of the first personal finance blogs in New Zealand. Her angle is slightly wider than many other money blogs, discussing everything from the challenges of ‘couple money’ to housing inequality. A refreshing take on personal finance.
Best Post:Wouldn’t You Rather Have the Money?
Frugal Woods
“In 2012 we both landed what we considered our dream jobs. We thought we’d made it. But a strange thing happened. Here we’d achieved everything we’d set out to and yet, we weren’t fulfilled.”
As our main cities become harder and more expensive to live in, many Aucklanders are making the move to the regions. This blog details one city family’s new life on a lifestyle block in Vermont, USA. Although most of us are unlikely to leave urban life behind, Frugal Woods is great inspiration for managing entertainment, housing and food on a budget.
Best Post: Our Approach To Affordable, Responsible Dog Care
The Smart and Lazy
“Achieve financial freedom by being smart on just a few things, and then being lazy by not doing much else.”
This blog should be required reading for anyone with a mortgage in New Zealand. The Smart and Lazy is a father to two young boys, and there’s a great guide on starting an investment fund for children.
Best Post: The Best Way to Invest For Your Children in New Zealand
Afford Anything
“Afford Anything is rooted in one idea: You can afford anything, but not everything — and that’s true not only for your money, but also your time, focus, energy and attention.”
This blog is all about focussing on the critical few. By taking an axe to the expenses that don’t really matter, you can spend freely on the things that make life great.
Best Post: The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Financial Awesomeness
If you’re looking to improve your financial health, blogs like NZ Muse and Afford Anything prove that, by focussing on what’s important, you can make it happen. We’d love to hear from Kiwis who have a favourite personal finance blog or tip. Send us an email on MakingItHappen@Harmoney.co.nz.