46% of Kiwis are worried about money. Whether it is just making it to the next payday, trying to get onto the property ladder, paying down credit card debt or saving for retirement. James Blair and Michael Vincent have been in financial services in New Zealand for 20 years combined. Cheques & Balances is a weekly podcast where James and Michael share their insights on how to get ahead financially and achieve financial freedom. Check out our website below: lighthousefinancial.co.nz
Property strategy matters more than ever in 2026.In this episode, we revisit the biggest property conversations of the past year - from first-home and investor case studies to buyer's agent insights, auction tactics, cash flow vs capital gains, interest rates, OCR cuts, and what actually drives confident property decisions heading in 2026Register now: Buying a home, investing, or want better control of your money? Join Michael Vincent and James Blair for a practical 2026 financial planning webinar.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Investing doesn't need to be complicated.In this episode, we break down how the fundamentals of how the sharemarket actually works - what a share is, when you should (and shouldn't) invest, the risks to watch for, how platforms make money, and why diversified, long-term investing beats trying to pick winners.Register now: Buying a home, investing, or want better control of your money? Join Michael Vincent and James Blair for a practical 2026 financial planning webinar.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Summer spending is easy - staying on top of your money is harder.In this episode, we walk through how to set clear financial goals, build a sustainable budget, make smarter KiwiSaver choices, manage debt properly, and create a practical roadmap toward buying a home and building long-term wealth without blowing up your lifestyle.Register now: Buying a home, investing, or want better control of your money? Join Michael Vincent and James Blair for a practical 2026 financial planning webinar.Speak to an adviser: If you want help turning your goals into a clear plan, book a complimentary 30-minute chat with a Lighthouse Financial adviser.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Four standout guests. Four conversations that shaped how we think about money, markets, and growth.In this special episode, we've pulled together our favourite guest moments from 2025 - revisiting the ideas, debates, and insights that sparked the biggest conversations throughout the year. From investing psychology and compounding, to housing reform, economic recovery, and scaling global businesses, this episode captures the thinking that mattered most.Register now: Buying a home, investing, or want better control of your money? Join Michael Vincent and James Blair for a practical 2026 financial planning webinar.Featured Guests & Key Discussions00:00 - Luke Kemeys- Compounding vs income investing and why behaviour matters more than perfect maths- The psychology of money, motivation, and consistency- Debt repayment strategies and getting early wins that keep people on track07:20 - Nicola Willis- Housing affordability and the future of home ownership in New Zealand- Planning reform, land supply, and replacing the Resource Management Act- Red tape, building constraints, and how supply impacts affordability- Creating economic growth beyond rising house prices13:45 - Mahesh Muralidhar- Scaling Canva from a small startup to a global business- Lessons from hyper-growth, leadership, and big ambition- Why New Zealand needs more global role models- Thinking bigger and building companies that can scale internationally21:00 - Jarrod Kerr - Interest rates, economic recovery, and why the turnaround took so long- Business confidence, hiring decisions, and investment signals- Housing market confidence, GDP outlook, and what to watch next- Where momentum is starting to return in the New Zealand economyFor more money tips follow us on: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lighthousefinancialnz/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lighthousefinancialnz/The content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Buying before you sell sounds simple - until it isn't.In this episode, we break down bridging finance, when it makes sense to use it, the difference between open and closed bridging loans, how banks assess risk, the real costs involved, and the common mistakes that can turn a house upgrade into a financial headache.Next steps: If you're thinking about upgrading, downsizing, or buying before you sell, talk to the Lighthouse Mortgages team early - a 15-minute chat can save you months of stress and costly mistakes.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
2026 is shaping up to be a year of recovery but not without risk.In this episode, we break down our 2026 predictions across the New Zealand economy, covering GDP growth, interest rates and OCR expectations, share market risks and opportunities, AI's real economic impact, property market forecasts, election uncertainty, and the global factors that could derail momentum.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
The property market doesn't wait and the best deals rarely come with notice.In this episode, the Lighthouse Property team breaks down what's really happening in the market heading into 2026, why speed and preparation matter, and walks through real case studies covering discounted new builds, regional yield opportunities, developer risk, and how first-home buyers and investors can secure strong deals without trying to time the market.Next Steps: At Lighthouse Property, we help clients get clear and prepared to secure the right property before the market moves. If 2026 is on your radar, now's the time to start.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
From his first house at 18 to managing over ten projects a year - this is how Kyle turned building skills into a property empire.In this episode, we dive into Kyle's journey from buying his first property as a teenager to scaling a portfolio through joint ventures, private finance, and smart subdivision strategies. He shares how he mitigates risk, structures his business, and what it really takes to flip and develop properties successfully in today's market.Next Steps: Wanting to follow in Kyle's footsteps? Check out Property-CEO - a coaching and mentoring programme helping Kiwis learn the strategies, funding options, and systems to build wealth through property.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
A real-world look at how tracking your money actually works - without spreadsheets or guesswork.In this episode of Inside a Financial Plan, Jess walks through a PocketSmith onboarding session with Rachel and Dion, covering how to set up accounts, track cash flow, build realistic budgets, categorise spending, handle transfers correctly, and use clear insights to stay aligned with their financial plan over time.This episode is proudly sponsored by PocketSmith: Big goals mean nothing without action. PocketSmith helps you track, plan, and stay accountable. Start today with 50% off your first two months.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Passive investing has taken over - but what happens when nobody's actually picking the stocks?In this episode, we unpack the explosive rise of passive investing, the growing concentration inside major indices like the S&P 500, and whether mechanical money flows into big tech could distort markets, create instability, or even open the door for active management to matter again.Next Steps: If you've got money invested or sitting on the sidelines and you're unsure whether a passive, active, or blended approach makes sense for your goals, book a chat with the Lighthouse Wealth team and build a portfolio that's actually designed for the long term.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Buying your first investment property? Here are the three game-changing rules every investor needs to know before they make their move.In this episode, we break down exactly how to use your equity, why structuring your debt correctly matters, and the essential tax steps - from interest deductibility to chattel valuations and tidy accounting - that can make or break your investment success.Next steps: If you're ready to take the next step toward your first (or next) investment property, book a call with the Lighthouse team - we'll help you understand your equity, borrowing power, and the smartest way to structure your lending and tax.Boarder Income RulesFor more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Is NZ's property market really unproductive — or is everyone getting it wrong?In this episode, we break down the real economic impact of New Zealand's property sector - from its $50B GDP contribution and 235,000 jobs, to how domestic trade, construction, KiwiSaver investment, and smarter intensification strategies shape whether property truly helps or hinders national productivity.This episode is brought to you by Lighthouse Financial - your partner in financial freedom.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
The North and South Islands are living two completely different financial realities - and the wealth gap is bigger than you think.In this episode, we break down why regions like Canterbury, Otago, and Southland are outperforming the major centres - from lower debt loads and cheaper housing to booming primary industries - while Auckland and Wellington grapple with high mortgages, sluggish sectors, and rising unemployment.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Buying your first home just got a whole lot easier and the numbers prove it.In this episode, we break down the five biggest shifts helping first-home buyers right now: falling interest rates, lower test rates, flexible deposit options, smarter bank approvals, easier due-diligence pathways, and a market where negotiation not auctions is finally back on the table.Next Steps: If you want to know exactly how much you can borrow, what deposit you need, and whether you're ready to buy, book a chat with Lighthouse Mortgages and we'll run the numbers with you.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Cashflow or capital gains? Why choose when the smartest investors are structuring their deals to get both? In this episode, we sit down with Ilse Wolfe, Director of Wolfe Property, to unpack how investors are navigating 2025's shifting market, from falling interest rates and rising optimism to real case studies showing how strategic renovations, multi-unit deals, and value-add tactics can create both strong cashflow and long-term capital growth.Next steps: Learn more about Wolfe Property hereFor more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Mortgage rates are dropping and the right move now could add over $100K to your net worth.In this episode, we break down how holding your repayments at the higher level you're used to can shave decades off your loan, save hundreds of thousands in interest, accelerate your equity, and set you up for smarter investing and long-term financial freedom.Next Steps: Want to see how much faster you could clear your mortgage? Book a chat with our Lighthouse Mortgage team today.If you want clarity on your next steps from paying down debt to building long-term wealth book a chat with our Lighthouse Wealth team and get a personalised financial plan built around your goals.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Is NZ's property market actually broken or are the headlines missing the real story?In this episode, we break down 30 years of market history, supply and demand pressures, migration, affordability, investor psychology, and the real maths behind when (and whether) investment property still works in New Zealand.Next steps: If you want clarity on what you can borrow, what you can buy, or whether an investment property strategy stacks up, our Lighthouse Mortgage team can walk you through the numbers.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Insurance premiums have exploded and Kiwis are feeling the squeeze like never before.In this episode, we break down the shocking 15-year surge in insurance costs - from health and house premiums skyrocketing over 200–400% to the real impact of climate events, reinsurance costs, medical system pressure, and how listeners can reduce their cover without losing protection.Next Steps: If you want to make sure your life, health, income or trauma cover actually fits your budget and stage of life, book a one-on-one with a Lighthouse insurance adviser through the link in the show notes.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Will the RBNZ pull the trigger on 25 or 50? Here's what really sits behind Wednesday's OCR call.In this episode, we break down the latest inflation data, card-spending trends, bank pass-through (or lack of it), how summer spending could shape the economy, and why confidence - not just cuts - will determine whether 2026 finally turns a corner.Next Steps: If you want to find out whether you qualify for the 1.5% cashback or how a refinance works, get in touch with Lighthouse Mortgages and they'll walk you through your exact options.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
KiwiSaver is getting a shake-up and some of these changes could completely reshape your retirement.In this episode, we break down the proposed KiwiSaver overhaul from targeted boosts for low-income earners to parental-leave top-ups, employer contributions past 65, and the controversial emergency “sidecar” account - plus what these changes could really mean for your long-term savings.Next Steps: If you're not sure whether your KiwiSaver fund, contribution rate or strategy is set up correctly for these changes, book a free 30-minute session with a Lighthouse adviser and get your plan sorted.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
In this live webinar Scott O'Neill, Dylan Menzies and Michael Vincent break down where the real value is heading into 2026 - from commercial vs residential returns to bank appetite, yields, strategy, and live Q&A insights.Ideal for anyone exploring commercial property, diversifying from residential, or wanting expert clarity before making their next move.Ready to explore commercial property with expert support? Connect with the Rethink Investing team to access off-market deals and tailored commercial acquisition advice. Need lending support for your next residential or commercial purchase? The Lighthouse mortgage team can help you structure the right loan and get your finance approved. For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
A heated debate that every Kiwi needs to hear - Wealth Tax vs Capital Gains Tax.Matt, James and Mike down how each tax actually works, the real-world impact on homeowners, investors, retirees, and business owners, and why timing, fairness, and economic stability matter more than political noise.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Buying your first home? Don't walk into a negotiation blind.In this episode, Mike and Adam break down the exact strategies every first-home buyer needs - from spotting genuine negotiation opportunities to avoiding common traps, understanding timing, reading the market, structuring offers, and knowing when to push, walk away, or say yes.Next Steps: Ready for more? Register now for our upcoming webinar with Rethink Investing, where Scott O'Neill, Dylan Menzies and Michael Vincent unpack how to invest smarter and spot real opportunities in 2026.If you need guidance on what to buy and how to negotiate it, connect with the Lighthouse Property team - we're here to help.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
New Zealand's one-income household is officially dead - and the numbers prove it.In this episode, James and Michael break down why rising living costs, childcare expenses, inflation, and modern debt-to-income ratios make it nearly impossible to survive on a single salary, and what Kiwi families need to consider when planning work, kids, mortgages, and their long-term financial goals.Next Steps: If you're navigating childcare costs, mortgages or planning time off with young kids, chat with the Lighthouse Financial team to map out a plan that actually works for your family.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Can infrastructure spending really supercharge New Zealand's economy?In this episode, Kiwibank Chief Economist Jarrod Kerr joins the team to unpack how smart infrastructure investment, foreign capital, and confidence can lift productivity, boost GDP, and strengthen the Kiwi brand on the global stage.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Markets are booming - but are we on the edge of an AI bubble?In this quarterly update, James and Chris from Apollo Wealth break down what's driving global market performance, how AI hype and passive investing are shaping valuations, and why diversification and patience remain key as investors navigate an overheated landscape.Next Steps: Ready to make sense of the markets and build a plan that works through every cycle? Book a free 30-minute chat with a Lighthouse financial adviser.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Paying down your mortgage or investing in more property - which gets you closer to financial freedom?In this episode, Mike breaks down Dion and Rachel's financial plan, exploring how offset facilities, mortgage structures, and long-term property decisions can shape their wealth journey without unnecessary risk.This episode is proudly sponsored by PocketSmith: Big goals mean nothing without action. PocketSmith helps you track, plan, and stay accountable. Start today with 50% off your first two months.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Five smart ways to keep more money in your pocket this tax season.In this live webinar, Matt Harris and Andrew Higgs uncover the most overlooked tax hacks for property investors - from claiming chattels depreciation and home office expenses to restructuring debt, maximising travel deductions, and ensuring your accounting structures work in your favour.Next steps: Ready to uncover what deductions you've been missing? Book a free 30-minute consultation with one of our accountants to see how much more you could be saving this year.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Would 30-year fixed mortgages work in New Zealand? In this episode, James and Michael unpack how long-term fixed loans in the US provide stability for borrowers, compare them to New Zealand's shorter-term system, and explore the trade-offs between flexibility, certainty, and economic control.Next Steps: If you're wondering whether your bank, rate, or mortgage structure is right for you, get in touch with the Lighthouse Mortgage team for personalised advice.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Rates are down, but inflation's still biting. In this quarterly update, Kiwibank Chief Economist Jarrod Kerr unpacks the OCR cut to 2.5%, Labour's proposed capital gains tax, and what it all means for New Zealand's economy heading into 2025. From housing and business confidence to inflation and investment, we ask the big question - is this the start of a recovery, or just calm before another storm?For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Should New Zealand's wealthiest retirees still receive NZ Super? In this episode, James and Mike unpack the growing debate around means testing - exploring the political risks, financial realities, and whether cutting payments to high-income Kiwis could make the system more sustainable.Next Steps: Your retirement shouldn't depend on the government. Talk to a Lighthouse adviser today to build a plan that puts your financial future back in your control.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Retirement isn't about luck - it's about planning, action, and time.In this live webinar, James and Justin break down what Kiwis really need to retire comfortably - from understanding how much you'll need for a $100K annual income, to paying off your mortgage faster, leveraging property and shares, and building a financial plan that actually works.Next Steps:Ready to see what your retirement number looks like? Book a free 30-minute discovery call with Lighthouse Financial to start your personalised plan today.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Labour's back with a bold play - a 28% capital gains tax on property.In this episode, we break down the proposed 2027 capital gains tax - exploring its political timing, how it could impact property investors, business owners, and farmers, and whether it's the right move for New Zealand's struggling economy.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
What would you do if your financial plan said you'll have $6 million at 100?In this episode, we reconnect with Rachel and Deon to unpack their latest financial plan - from whether to buy another investment property or focus on shares, to paying off their mortgage, structuring trusts, and finding balance between spending today and securing their family's future.This episode is proudly sponsored by PocketSmith: Big goals mean nothing without action. PocketSmith helps you track, plan, and stay accountable. Start today with 50% off your first two months. Learn more hereFor more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Most investors lose money not because of the market - but because of their own mistakes.In this episode, we break down the five biggest mistakes people make when investing in shares - from chasing hot tips and trying to time the market to over-leveraging and ignoring debt. The hosts reveal the mindset and strategies that separate long-term investors from short-term speculators.Next steps: Want to learn how to invest smarter and plan for retirement? Join our free Retirement Planning Webinar on Wednesday, 29 October at 6:30pm - Register now. For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
What if your KiwiSaver balance could double - just by removing tax?In this episode, we explore the radical idea of untaxed KiwiSaver returns, comparing outcomes to Australia's super system, breaking down the numbers, and debating what it could mean for retirement, government revenue, and the future of NZ Super.Next Steps: Not sure if your KiwiSaver is set up for success? Book a free 30-minute session with a Lighthouse KiwiSaver adviser and make sure your money is working for your future.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
What does a real financial plan actually look like? In this episode, James walks Rachel and Dion through their personalised financial roadmap - covering budgeting, mortgage strategy, investment property planning, KiwiSaver comparisons, and retirement scenarios that show how they could achieve both lifestyle freedom and long-term wealth.This episode is proudly sponsored by PocketSmith: Big goals mean nothing without action. PocketSmith helps you track, plan, and stay accountable. Start today with 50% off your first two months.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Struggling with debt? In this episode, we share 3 key steps to fix your finances - from recognising the problem and shifting your mindset, to building a roadmap with clear goals, structure, and accountability.Next steps: If your finances are off track, Lighthouse can help - from tackling debt to building a clear plan tailored to your goals. Book a chat with our team todayFor more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Stop giving the banks your hard-earned money - learn how to cut debt and grow wealth faster.In this live webinar, we cover smart debt-reduction strategies, how to pay off your mortgage faster, the role of equity in building wealth, budgeting techniques that actually work, and practical ways to set yourself up for long-term financial freedom.
The OCR has been cut - but is this just the beginning for falling interest rates? In this episode, we break down the 50-basis-point cut, its impact on mortgages, business confidence, and house prices, and discuss whether Kiwi borrowers could see sub-4% rates by the end of the yearNext steps: If you're wondering what the latest OCR drop means for your mortgage, refinancing, or property plans, get in touch with Lighthouse Mortgages today.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Provisional tax catches out thousands of Kiwi business owners every year.In this episode, Matthew Harris breaks down what provisional tax really is, why it's so often misunderstood, the common mistakes people make, and how tools like tax pooling can save you from penalties and surprise billsNext steps: If you're a business owner or property investor facing provisional tax, get in touch with the Lighthouse accounting team - we'll help you structure smarter, manage cash flow, and avoid costly mistakes.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Sometimes the habits that feel frugal are actually draining your wallet. In this episode, Jess and Makayla unpack why “it's expensive to be poor” - exploring how buying cheap, renting long-term, skipping insurance, or avoiding upfront costs can end up costing more in the long run.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Episode 2 of our mini-series dives into strategy - James works with Rachel and Dion to break down how their money is invested across KiwiSaver, crypto, Sharesies, and their mortgage. Together they explore how each piece fits within their wider goals, weigh the trade-offs between risk and return, and start shaping the structure behind their long-term wealth plan.This episode is proudly sponsored by PocketSmith: Big goals mean nothing without action. PocketSmith helps you track, plan, and stay accountable. Start today with 50% off your first two months.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
KiwiSaver won't save your retirement - and it's time Kiwis faced that reality.In this episode, Mike and James reveal the harsh truth behind New Zealand's retirement crisis, unpacking why low contribution rates and unrealistic expectations mean KiwiSaver alone won't cut it. They break down what $500,000 in savings actually looks like at retirement and outline the practical steps to build true financial independence - from paying off your mortgage faster to investing smarter.Next Steps: If you haven't reviewed your KiwiSaver recently, now's the time - book a 30-minute session with a Lighthouse KiwiSaver adviser and make sure your fund, provider, and contributions are actually working for your future.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
How low could mortgage rates really go?
From Auckland to the Ivy League and beyond - Jamie Beaton's journey shows what it takes to turn a Kiwi startup into a billion-dollar business. In this episode, Jamie shares how he built Crimson Education from the ground up, the challenges of scaling globally, insights into New Zealand's education system, and the mindset needed for young entrepreneurs to succeed.Learn more about Crimson Education hereFor more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
A real Kiwi couple puts their finances on the table in our brand-new mini series.In this first episode, we dive into Dion and Rachel's money story - covering their values, goals, family aspirations, and the foundations of a free financial plan that will guide their journey over the next 12 months.This episode is proudly sponsored by PocketSmith: Big goals mean nothing without action. PocketSmith helps you track, plan, and stay accountable. Start today with 50% off your first two months.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
In this episode, we unpack the true financial impact of going from two to three kids - covering housing upgrades, new cars, childcare, food, schooling, and even family holidays - to show how quickly expenses pile up.Next Steps: Every family needs a solid financial plan - one that keeps renovations on track, car costs under control, and sets your kids up for the future. Talk to the team at Lighthouse Wealth today.Head to Crayon to learn more about family costs, parental leave, and financial tools designed for Kiwi parents. They've got resources to help you plan ahead and make confident money decisions for your family.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Midlife money stress is real - and it's hitting Kiwis harder than ever. In this episode, we break down the “midlife financial crisis,” exploring how childcare, mortgages, aging parents, and debt all collide in your 40s, and the practical steps you can take to regain control and build long-term wealth.Next Steps: Ready to take the pressure off your finances? Book a free consultation with a Lighthouse Financial adviser and get a clear plan for your cashflow, mortgage, and long-term wealth.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Inflation is down, but Kiwis are still feeling broke. In this episode, we unpack why everyday essentials like rent, groceries, and mortgage repayments remain painfully high despite inflation easing, exploring wage stagnation, rising living costs, and what it really means for households across New Zealand.Next Steps: Take control of rising costs. Book a free session with Lighthouse Wealth and take the next step towards financial confidence.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
NZ's economy has gone backwards - here's what it really means for Kiwis. In this episode, we break down the 0.9% GDP decline, what it signals for business and households, the impact on manufacturing and construction, Reserve Bank policy decisions, and why interest rate changes could bring both relief and riskNext steps: from surviving summer spending to saving thousands on your mortgage, our upcoming webinars are packed with practical strategies for every stage of your financial journey. Register nowFor more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
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