Summertime sunshine quickly becomes unpleasant when your home feels like the inside of an oven! The fact is most older-style homes in New Zealand weren’t built with ventilation or cooling in mind. Which means they can feel stifling hot during the summer months. To help you stay cool without relying on an aircon, try some of these cooling tips inside your home this summer.

2020 has been a year like no other, defined by the COVID-19 pandemic, self-isolation, and a global financial recession. And while it may have been the most challenging year ever, there’s no reason 2021 has to be the same. With a little planning and some focus, it is possible to make 2021 your best financial year yet. Take a look at these 3 ways to help you get started.

COVID-19 has changed the way we do so many things, but not all of the changes have been bad. *Online searches show a greater number of shoppers seeking ways to cultivate a simpler, more meaningful festive season this year, with experiences, personalised items, and homemade gifts. If you’ve chosen to make this festive season a more meaningful one, here are 3 simple steps to help you get started.

Many of us are feeling the financial crunch after an especially tough year. And with the festive season fast approaching, the added pressure of extra expenses like gifts and entertainment is an obvious concern. So that you don’t have to start the new year struggling to repay the cost of this festive season, take a look at these creative and meaningful ways to celebrate Christmas without straining your budget.

Lockdown in New Zealand sparked a flurry of people enquiring about writing their Will*. But it’s not just in a pandemic when an important legal Will needs serious consideration. While most people prefer not to think too much about what will happen when they pass, without a Will, your assets may be distributed according to the law of New Zealand (the Administration Act 1969), which may not be in line with your wishes. Take a look at these 5 things to consider when writing a Will.

COVID-19 has impacted not only the way we work, go to school or socialize; for many, it’s had a significant financial impact too. Job loss or reduced hours has meant more people have to rely on credit or even miss repayments on financial commitments due to financial strain. While your health and wellbeing are understandably top of mind right now, it’s just as important you keep your credit score in the best possible shape. Here’s why.

Over the last month, some of New Zealand’s biggest companies have been hit by cyber-attacks. Among those targeted were the New Zealand Stock Exchange, MetService, Westpac and several large media companies. The recent spate of cyber-attacks has been attributed to a growing shift in companies working remotely because of COVID-19, and is a timely reminder of the importance of cyber-safety for anyone accessing online services.

If you’re feeling an extra spring in your step, you’re not alone! Scientists tell us that the start of spring can radically improve your mood and that those longer, warmer, sunnier days – with a promise of summer – bring an extra bit of cheer, and a feeling of happiness and hopefulness to most of us. Not convinced? Take a look at these scientific reasons* why springtime brings a little bit of happiness.

Your debt may well be costing you more than just the interest you’re repaying! Research shows there’s a clear link between your financial health and your mental health, with some studies reporting a higher risk of mental health problems amongst people who have debt. Having just acknowledged Mental Health Awareness week in October, it’s a good time to remind ourselves of the importance of maintaining good mental and financial health.

If your mood has plummeted along with the temperature, you’re not alone! As well as the cold, rain and even snow, winter can bring some serious changes to our health and wellbeing. The winter blues are usually heralded by fatigue, a need for more sleep, carb cravings, and even depression. We’re sharing these 5 hacks to help you beat the winter blues.