Money & debt
Money feels tight this week — who can I call first?
Free national helplines and Western Bay mentoring sit alongside WINZ urgent costs — pick one calm next call.
When cash is short, one clear next call often beats surfing forever. MoneyTalks (0800 345 123 or text 4029) is New Zealand’s free financial helpline. Sorted.org.nz has free tools. Work and Income lists urgent or unexpected cost options if you may be eligible.
In the Western Bay / Tauranga area (roughly Katikati to Ōtamarākau), Bay Financial Mentors offer free, confidential mentoring — including online booking. Our programme directory lists clinics and contacts.
Home Steps has checklists and steps you can tick without guilt. None of this replaces advice from a qualified mentor or agency; it just helps you start.
Calm next moves
- MoneyTalks — 0800 345 123 / text 4029
- Bay Financial Mentors — book online or call 0800 236 123
- Browse the Resilience Programme directory for local clinics
Official resources
Always confirm details on the official site — laws and processes can change.
Educational signposting only from the Resilience Programme. Not legal, financial, or medical advice. Updated 2026-07-10.