Saving money can feel like a bit of a challenge at times, but if get creative with it there are always opportunities to keep money in your pocket. Instead of the usual "cut back on coffee" advice, let’s get creative and smart about it. Here are five fresh ways to keep more dosh in your pocket this year.

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1. Monetise your skills & hobbies

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Instead of just cutting costs, how about making a bit of extra cash? If you've got a skill or hobby, turn it into a side hustle.

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How to make it work:
  • Sell homemade goods or second-hand items on Trade Me or Facebook Marketplace.
  • Offer services like tutoring, dog-walking, or handyman work to your friends and family and wider community
  • Rent out unused space, if you've got an extra room or even a carpark, list it on Parkable or Airbnb.

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2. Slash your grocery bill with better food initiatives

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Supermarket prices are through the roof, but there are alternative ways to get quality food for less.

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Money-saving food hacks:
  • Join a food co-op or community garden, these often provide cheap bulk food or free veggies.
  • Swap produce with neighbours or check out local "crop swap" Facebook groups.
  • Make use of discounted meal kit deals on Hellofresh and Bargain Box

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3. Optimise your bills & negotiate better deals

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You’d be surprised how many bills can be reduced just by asking or switching providers.

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Bill-cutting tips:
  • Haggle with your power, internet, or insurance providers, a quick call can get you a better rate.
  • Use PowerSwitch.nz to compare electricity rates and switch to a cheaper provider.
  • If you work remotely, ask your employer to cover part of your costs for working from home.

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4. Get paid for spending (without going into debt)

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Smart use of cashback programs and loyalty rewards can add up fast.

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How to make your spending work for you:
  • Use cashback apps like KiwiWallet when shopping online.
  • Sign up for supermarket fuel discount schemes (like Countdown Onecard or AA Smartfuel).
  • Pay regular expenses with a rewards credit card, just make sure you pay it off in full each month.

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5. Rethink transport: Save big on getting around

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Owning and running a car in NZ isn’t cheap. Petrol, rego, insurance, maintenance… it all stacks up. If you can find ways to cut transport costs, you could save thousands each year.

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Smarter transport ideas:
  • Ditch the second car – If you have two vehicles, consider selling one and using Mevo, Cityhop, or public transport instead.
  • Leverage public transport discounts – Many councils offer transport subsidies, and employers sometimes provide commuter benefits.
  • Consider an e-bike – The upfront cost might seem high, but swapping a car for an e-bike could save you over $5,000 per year in petrol, parking, and maintenance.
  • Carpool whenever possible – Split petrol costs with mates, colleagues, or use rideshare options
  • Work from home more often – If your employer allows it, even one or two days a week can lead to big savings on fuel and transport.

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Final words

Thanks for reading, if you have any feedback or questions on what you've seen so far, feel free to get in touch using our contact form or alternatively give us a bell at hello@budgetbuddie.co.nz

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Disclaimer

This blog or any other information provided by BudgetBuddie is not financial advice. If you're needing financial advice please get in touch with a licensed financial advisor or professional.