Living in New Zealand, considered among the most developed first-world countries globally, is a unique blessing; yet, managing your expenses can be incredibly challenging due to the remarkably high cost of living. However, despite New Zealand’s high living costs, budgeting remains an essential part of everyday life, no matter if you are planning an enjoyable local weekend getaway or attempting to make the most of your finances.
While budgeting can be a hassle at times, it is a critical function of humanity and remains a necessary modern life skill we should all master. There are numerous practical and advantageous budgeting tips out there, although the sheer amount of advice can be overwhelming at times. Nonetheless, in this article, we will explore some of the most feasible budgeting tips in 2024, which will undoubtedly help you save money on food, accommodation, and entertainment expenditures.
Make Smart Entertainment Choices
As heartbreaking as it is, most of you probably find yourself widely overspending on your monthly entertainment allowance, if there was one in place initially. Kiwis enjoy outdoor entertainment, going to the movies, wagering online, seeing shows and plays, and dining out.
When heading outdoors to trek or camp, consider budget-friendly or free camping areas that may be nearby. Try to grocery shop for your adventure beforehand and pack ingredients for cooking so that you can create your own meals, instead of dining out, which can get pricey.
Over the previous five years, online gambling, as a form of entertainment, has exploded in popularity, with New Zealanders being among the most enthusiastic participants globally. While online gambling can definitely be considered one of the best pastimes ever created, some find it pricey. However, it does not need to break the bank. Gamblers should look for budget options and low-deposit sites. There are casinos accepting 1 dollar deposits, which means Kiwis can play and wager on games online without blowing their budget. Techopedia editor and online gambling expert Khadija Bilal explains that these low-deposit sites allow players in New Zealand to explore and play online games for as little as just one dollar.
For those who love to go out to the movies, consider subscribing to a movie streaming service. This way, you can watch the newest titles from home and save a few bucks.
No matter what form of entertainment you love, look for ways to reduce costs while still having fun and doing the things you love.
The Best Affordable Accommodation Budgeting Tips
It is widely accepted that living or travelling in New Zealand means extraordinarily high accommodation expenses. Yet, by considering alternative options such as renting out an unoccupied room, and hiring budget-friendly accommodations such as motels, holiday parks, and hostels, you can save a significant portion of your monthly expenses. At the same time, these forms of accommodations may not be the most luxurious or gratifying but they will enormously assist you with budgeting, allowing your long-term financial state to be as secure as possible.
Moreover, if you get the chance for a home exchange, to pet sit or house sit, take it for as many days as you can, directly saving hundreds, if not thousands of dollars each year. Despite home exchanges being in their infancy in New Zealand, platforms such as TrustedHousesitters can instantly and securely connect locals, with travellers, and homeowners. This is a unique and distinguished way to live or travel through New Zealand, without blowing through your budget before month’s end.
The Best Budget Food Options
In New Zealand, eating to your heart’s content is as expensive and challenging as entertaining yourself and finding appropriate accommodation. Fortunately, there are numerous practical and viable ways to eat healthy and delicious meals without significant overspending on your budget.
The best way to eat on a budget in New Zealand is by taking advantage of and visiting some of the country’s most vibrant and revered food markets. These markets offer fresh fruit, vegetables, meats, and other produce, without hurting your pocket in any substantial way. They may even stock fresh meat pies. Furthermore, local supermarkets are a convenient option for eating on a budget, as you can stock up on your favourite ingredients, snacks, and other foods by accessing the best available deals.
How To Save Money On Transportation
Owning a car or travelling around New Zealand without using public transport can be among the most pricy ventures imaginable. Luckily, the highly developed first-world country is known for its safe and reliable public transport system.
The public transport system is viable for tourists and locals, with buses, trains, and taxis operating extensively throughout New Zealand, meaning you can get from point A to point B, safely and cheaply at any time of the day or night. Major public transportation companies such as Naked Bus and Inter City offer long-distance services, allowing anyone to travel throughout the striking beautiful country without overspending on their monthly budgets.
Conclusion
Despite New Zealand being among the most expensive countries globally, there are numerous ways to live an enjoyable life while maintaining a feasible monthly budget. By considering affordable entertainment options like casinos accepting $1 deposits, opting for budget-friendly accommodations, cooking your own meals, and using public transport, you can enjoy many memorable experiences without overspending.