People seeking financial help from Gisborne Budget Moni Ora are $2.4 million in debt and this could continue to rise from the demands of Christmas.

Over the festive period, families are asking for things they might not be able to afford, so it is best to plan and stay focused, says Gisborne Budget Moni Ora manager Lynda Markie.

“Many in Gisborne have little room for Christmas in their budgets so looking for no- or low-cost options is important,” she says.

“Knowing your budget priorities and limits can help you resist impulse buying.

“Things like making a list and checking it off while shopping and talking to your family about Christmas expenses can be really helpful.

“For example, Secret Santa, where you choose a spending limit and only have to buy for one family member, is a personal favourite which stopped my own Christmas overspend in its tracks.”

“It's a good idea to sit down and assess your normal household budget. After paying the necessities, see what you can go without to redirect money to Christmas.”

Gisborne Budget Moni Ora has worked with 275 clients over the past 12 months.

Eighty-five of those attended for one session. The rest attended ongoing sessions for more in-depth support, including debt management.

Those ongoing cases totalled nearly $2.4m of debt. Many were behind in payments, with an average of just over $1000 debt arrears.

Moni Ora provides on average 100 free appointments a month such as private korero kanohi ki te kanohi — confidential face-to-face sessions with a financial mentor and MoneyMates programmes to build financial knowledge, confidence and resilience.

Know what you can afford and prioritise, says Ms Markie.

“Many of us feel pressured but taking control and making a plan can really protect you against getting caught up in the Christmas hype.

“Christmas is an expensive time but it's just one day. If we reframe it without the commercial hype and think about what is important to us, it helps to keep it in proportion.”

“Using credit cards or after-pay means you have to pay bills off over the summer holiday when you most likely want to be out enjoying yourself.

“Summer holidays can be expensive for families with children. They are off school and constantly looking in the fridge for something to eat, or wanting money for social outings with their friends.

“If you commit to after-pay, that might really impact on your summer fun, especially if you're having to be mindful of back-to-school costs at the end of January,” she said.