Inspo for a Money Merry Christmas

The countdown’s on. Christmas is just around the corner and you may still have gifts and catering to tick off your list. 

So how do you deck the halls without breaking the bank? We have a few suggestions to help you take stock (stock, that’s right, you need that too).

Yes, that’s a cheeky way to sneak in a bit of a boring topic. But budgets needn’t take ages, so if you haven’t sorted one, there’s no time like the present. They’re like a gift to your future self (we’re taking this theme and we’re running with it). 

Puns aside, creating a realistic budget lets you enjoy life, but keeps you within your means.

What’s on your wishlist for Christmas and beyond? A holiday, memorable meal, or a special gift? Write it down, or grab a picture, and put it where you’ll see it as a simple reminder to stick with your plan for this season, or the next. 

You could go one step better in ANZ Internet Banking and the ANZ goMoney app, by personalising your accounts with a name and image as well. 

Even though the 25th is approaching fast, you can still do yourself a financial favour by sorting food and beverages sooner rather than later. Otherwise the 24th could mean two things – your options are fewer, or worse, the item’s sold out. A little shopping around now could bag you a few bargains, as well as peace of mind, which will make everything taste even sweeter come Christmas Day. 

One last canny catering tip: think leftovers. Jump online for recipes that use up leftover turkey, chook, ham and pavlova. The last one’s a joke. Like there’s ever leftover pav.

It’s lovely to spoil people. And that’s fine if money’s no object, but rising costs are causing many of us to trim our festive finances. 

The good news – gifts that show you know and care about the recipient don’t have to cost the earth. Something less expensive, but considered, will always hit the mark. Maybe it’s homemade? Maybe it’s a hybrid, e.g. a new photo album filled with photos. 

Here’s an idea if a group of you will get together for Christmas. Put your names in a hat, set a dollar limit, pull out a name – and that’s the only gift you buy. Easy.

Start the new year as you mean to finish by sorting your savings plan. 

Although it can be tempting to throw financial caution to the wind at this time of year, try not to get too carried away. Your financial wellbeing will thank you. Besides, the important stuff, like hanging with whānau and friends, is free. Wishing you a restful, happy and healthy Christmas.