Inspo for a Money Merry Christmas
With the Yuletide nigh, the temptation to panic shop is real. Before you do, have a read.
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!
Oh come all ye budget
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. See how you could keep your finances on track over the holidays by planning your spend.
How to visualise your goals
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. See you soon crystal waters of the Coromandel.
Christmas catering
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.
Give gifts, not an arm and a leg
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. And here’s an idea if a load of you are getting together for Christmas. Put your names in a hat before the 25th, set a dollar limit, pull out a name – and that’s the only gift you have to buy. Easy.
How about a happy New Year?
Start 2023 as you mean to finish by sorting your savings plan in 2022. Set a savings goal.
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 really important stuff, like hanging with family and friends, is free. Wishing you a restful, happy and healthy Christmas.
Important information
This material is for information purposes only. Please talk to us if you need financial advice about your situation and goals or about our products and services. See our financial advice provider disclosure at anz.co.nz/fapdisclosure