Tairākau Spending Journal
The Tairākau Spending Journal is a tool for Māori to track their spending, to see where their money is going and how much they spend on needs and wants.
How to use the Tairākau Spending Journal:
1. Take the 14-day challenge – each day, enter all the small stuff you buy (things you pay for using cash or Eftpos). Each time you enter something, say whether it’s a need or a want. Stay motivated by taking the challenge with a friend.
2. Check your needs vs wants spending throughout the challenge. Ask yourself these questions: How much do I spend on wants compared to needs? What changes do I need to make to my spending habits?
3. After 14 days, your data will be transferred to your Spending Journal so that you can continue tracking. You can start another challenge, or continue to track your spending for as long as you like
Tracking your spending is the first step towards creating a healthy spending plan. It will help you figure out if you need to cut down on buying things you want or if you need to earn more money.
A healthy spending plan will give you choices, helping you and your whānau live without money stress, get out of debt and save for the future.
A healthy spending plan is one where you have a surplus – money left over after you have paid your bills and expenses.
This surplus (left-over money) means that you:
• can pay your debt off faster
• can save up for a goal
• won’t be a financial burden on your whānau
• can help out friends and whānau when they need it
• have money left over for an emergency like a tangihanga
• can buy something fun right now
To find out more about creating a healthy spending plan and for money information and tips, go to www.tairakau.co.nz