About Us

BudgetFirst is a registered charity which helps people and their families with personal budgeting and managing debt. We provide a free, non-judgemental service to people who want to understand more about their money, and take control of any problems that could be on the horizon.

Our assistance ranges from home ownership to savings and repossessions. Whatever your requirements, we can help you with answers to your money questions - from simple money management tips to acting as your financial mentors.

 

Our Mission: Grow whanau financial confidence and knowledge

OUR VALUES

  • Dependability - Bringing out the best of ourselves

  • Psychological Safety - Equality for all to ensure safe practices and sharing

  • Impact - Support each other in their journey

  • Bring meaning - Building strong connections with each other - providers, clients, staff

  • Structure and Clarity - Working together to achieve great outcomes

 

MEET THE TEAM

 

Yvonne - Manager

Ngati Pahauwera, Ngati Poporo and Ngati Te Ata

I joined the team at BudgetFirst in 2008 as a volunteer, before becoming a financial mentor and facilitator for the Money Mates workshops. In June 2022 I took over the role as Manager. I really enjoy working within our team and helping whanau to achieve their financial goals and manage their money.

Titiro Whakamuri
Kokiri Whakamua
Look back and reflect
So you can move forward

Gemma

We have been very privileged to offer GoodLoans in at BudgetFirst since August 2021 when I became the on-site Loan Worker. Prior to that, I joined the BudgetFirst team as a Financial Mentor in April 2021.

Having worked with some of the best customer service teams in the country, I am genuinely passionate about helping people and I'm a great listener.

I welcome the opportunity to encourage positive change and help make meaningful improvements to the livelihoods of our clients.

Julie

I have been with the team at Budget First since November 2020. By providing our clients with tools, information and encouragement, they are able to empower themselves to better their financial situation and see a positive way forward. It’s very rewarding being a part of this.

Thank you to the following funders who support BudgetFirst

What people say

Testimonials

Thankyou so much for all your help Gemma, I have really appreciated the free specialist service provided by yourself and Budget First.

Robyn

Very welcoming and approachable, understanding and listening to my budget/financial circumstances. Made me feel like I can be honest about my financial hardship and not be embarrassed

Anon

Learning how to budget my money wisely. Attending and doing a budget helps me to try sort my financials out, thank you BudgetFirst team.

Michaela

Made me feel at ease and not embarrassed for asking for help. She really cares about helping people. Thank you.

Savanna

Having the time to talk through our options, a real confidence boost.

Trent & Shannon

Tania, communicated to me in a way I could understand

Tearoa

Gave me a lot of valuable information and helped me to really put things into perspective on how to move forward.  Gave me hope and confidence.

Angela

We are currently moving to our own home today. I work a seasonal job that allows me employment nine months of the year.  “We achieved our goal of having our own home”

PJDonise

Tania listened and was very understanding and helped me sort my debts, she always has a smile and talks respectfully. I appreciate that Tania treated me with respect. She was honest about my circumstances and made me fell confident that I could sort out my financial situation, and spent extra time with me and my grandson. 

Triphena

Heugh has made me more aware of taking care of the details in weekly financial management and I would like to express my gratitude to him for his time and expertise

Nicola

Huge eye opener, the best conversation I’ve had about savings and plans. Helpful advice on getting the costs of debt repayment down and being more aware of bank fees

Jessie