Living on a budget

Feeling the pinch? You are not alone. 

We’ve pulled together some helpful resources to help you and your whānau make that dollar go further.

Cheap and free services

Kai/foodbanks, tautoko hauora/health support and tautoko whānau/family support.

Easy (and cheap) recipes

Māra Kai

Establishing your own māra kai is an awesome way to save money and a great whānau activity. Get your tamariki, mokopuna and the nephs involved, too, and say goodbye to those ridiculous supermarket prices.

Check out Ko Mahinga o Tōku Māra Kai/Establishing Edible Gardens by Nick Roskruge to help you get started. If you’re not quite there yet, be sure to explore the many already-established community fruit gardens across Nelson and Marlborough.

Online tools

The Grocer 
The Grocer compares the cost of groceries across different stores, allowing you to check for the best deals before you head out.

Found Directory
Found connects you with the community group you need from welfare and education through to sport, recreation, art and culture. Just type in what you’re looking for and they’ll provide a list of suggestions.

Cheaper Ways NZ Facebook Page
Cheaper Ways features lots of tips and tricks for living smarter from real-life people just like you and me. Well worth a follow!

Gaspy
Gaspy compares the prices of petrol/diesel in your area so you can scope out the best spot to fill up before leaving home. App available on both Apple and Android.