Practical money skills for everyday life

Understanding money gives people more choices. It helps them avoid costly debt, prepare for unexpected bills and build towards something better.

The Waikato Financial Literacy Fund at Momentum Waikato helps more people access practical financial education, with a particular focus on young people.

Learn early. Build good habits.

How much can I afford to spend? What will borrowing really cost? How do I start saving?

These are everyday questions, but many people reach adulthood without being taught how to answer them. Constant advertising, easy credit and online subscriptions can make it even harder to stay on top of money.

Financial education won’t remove every pressure families face. But learning to budget, understand debt and plan ahead gives people a stronger starting point.

ABOVE: Homes John and Nicola have built through Assured Property.

Helping more people into homes

Through Assured Property, John and Nicola have built more than 1,000 homes across the Waikato. They want more people to have the security of owning their own home.

An important first step is learning to manage money, stay out of bad debt and save for a deposit. That’s why they established the Waikato Financial Literacy Fund.

For people who are finding it difficult to put a deposit together, they’re also working with Bridge Housing on rent-to-own and shared equity pathways for eligible households.

“Understanding money gives people more control over their lives. It’s not just about balancing the budget this week. It’s about avoiding expensive mistakes and having a chance to get ahead.”

John Kenel

Practical support in our communities

One of the organisations supported by the fund is Te Kauwhata Community House - see Financial literacy grant supports local budgeting service.

Its financial mentoring programme helps people understand their finances, work through debt and take practical steps towards saving.

“Asking for help with money can be hard. Having someone local who listens and helps you work out the next step can make a real difference to a family.”

Nicola Kenel

How the fund works

Donations grow the Waikato Financial Literacy Fund. Most of its annual investment income, 70 per cent, provides grants to help children and teenagers access financial literacy programmes, courses and learning tools, with the balance being reinvested to keep the Fund growing.

Read more about the Waikato Financial Literacy Fund

Supporting financial literacy to boost wellbeing - August 2022.

Understanding money is path to wellbeing - April 2024.

Financial literacy grant supports local budgeting service - October 2026.

Help more young people understand money

Donate to support practical financial education and help build skills that can last a lifetime.