Cheques and Balances

OCR Explained: What It Means for Your Mortgage & NZ’s Future | Episode 365

20 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

OCR explained: the cut, the tracker, and what it really means for your mortgage. In this episode, we break down the Reserve Bank’s 25bps cut to 3%, ...

Can The Economy Recover If House Prices Don’t? | Episode 364

19 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

If house prices stay flat, can New Zealand’s economy really bounce back? In this episode, we unpack how a stagnant housing market impacts GDP, busin...

My Auction Horror Story: What Every Home Buyer Must Know | Episode 363

17 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Buying a house isn’t just about the price tag - how you buy matters just as much. In this episode, we break down auctions, negotiations, deadline sa...

From One Home to Three Rentals: A Client’s Property Journey | Episode 362

14 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

From a $39k salary to three investment properties - Crissy’s story proves strategic moves pay off.In this episode, we follow Crissy’s journey from...

5 Key Steps: A Beginner’s Guide to Property Investing ft. Adam Farrell | Episode 361

12 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Buying your first investment property? Start with the right strategy, not the closest suburb.In this episode, Lighthouse Financial’s Property Direct...

Should Your KiwiSaver Have Crypto In It? | Episode 360

10 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Crypto in KiwiSaver: bold move or big mistake? In this episode, we break down whether cryptocurrency deserves a place in your KiwiSaver, exploring it...

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Finance Minister Nicola Willis Debt, Growth, and New Zealand's Economic Future | Episode 359

08 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

You can’t tax your way to prosperity - but you can grow the pie. In this exclusive interview from inside the Beehive, Finance Minister Nicola Willis...

Global Markets Are Up: So Why Is NZ Still Struggling? Q2 Report | Episode 358

05 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Markets are bouncing back - but not all economies are sharing the gains. In this April-June 2025 quarterly update, we unpack the drivers behind the gl...

Why Revolving Credit Will Ruin Your Life | Episode 357

03 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Revolving credit might feel like financial freedom - but for most people, it can be a fast track to long-term debt. In this episode, we unpack how rev...

Retirement Crisis: NZ’s Ageing Population | Episode 356

31 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Nearly 1 in 4 Kiwis will be over 65 by 2050 - and that’s not just grey hairs, it’s an economic shake-up. In this episode, we break down what an ag...

Step by Step Guide: How To Get Your First Mortgage | Episode 355

29 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Think getting your first mortgage is confusing? We break it all down - from KiwiSaver strategies and saving hacks to bank vs broker comparisons and ho...

4 Reasons Why You Won’t Retire At 65 | Episode 354

27 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Think you’re on track for retirement? Think again. We unpack the four biggest mistakes that are quietly derailing Kiwi retirement plans - from mortg...

Are Kiwis Giving Up on Property? | Episode 353

24 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Some Kiwis are walking away from property - but is that the right move?We break down why public sentiment is shifting, the risks of short-term thinkin...

NZ Debt Crisis: Why Half A Million Kiwis Are Behind On Bills | Episode 352

22 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Debt stress is rising across New Zealand and it’s not just mortgages. Over 485,000 Kiwis are behind on bills, with short-term debt spiking and KiwiS...

Retirement in 2025: Should you 'Die With Zero'? | Episode 351

20 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Should you really save every dollar for retirement? Makayla and Jess break down the key ideas from Die With Zero by Bill Perkins exploring why the r...

The Realities of Saving a 10% Deposit in 2025 | Episode 350

17 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Think saving a 10% deposit is out of reach? We break down the real numbers behind buying your first home in 2025 - comparing couples in Auckland and C...

Mortgages 101: Deposits, Interest and Equity Explained | Episode 349

15 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Mortgage jargon got you confused? We unpack the fundamentals of deposits, loan structures, and equity - breaking down what they actually mean, how the...

5 Traits That Mean You’ll Be Wealthy | Episode 348

13 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Being rich is easy - being wealthy is a different game. We break down the five traits that separate the truly wealthy from the paycheque-rich - from m...

Luxury Investments: The Birkin Bag vs. The S&P 500 | Episode 347

10 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Can a $30,000 Birkin bag really beat the S&P 500? We unpack whether luxury assets like handbags, watches, wine, and cars truly outperform traditio...

OCR Breakdown: 2025 Economic Update Ft. Jarrod Kerr | Episode 346

09 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

The OCR stayed put - but what does that mean for you?In this episode, Kiwibank Chief Economist Jarrod Kerr breaks down the Reserve Bank’s decision t...

6 Month Money Reset: How To Fix Your Budget Fast | Episode 345

08 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

With only 6 months left in 2025 - is your money on track? We share practical ways to check your progress, trim hidden costs, tweak your budget, increa...

Why Term Deposits Are Costing You Thousands | Episode 344

06 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Term deposits might be costing you more than you realise. We unpack why parking your cash in term deposits could leave you going backwards after infla...

Should you buy a house in your 20s? | Episode 343

03 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Is topping up a mortgage at 22 really the dream? Makayla and Jess break down the pros and cons of buying young, why some Kiwis are purchasing at 22, t...

OCR Predictions: Is A Rate Cut Off The Table? | Episode 342

01 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Will the RBNZ cut rates in July or keep Kiwis waiting? We unpack why the Reserve Bank might hold off on cutting the OCR, from unexpected GDP growth an...

From Scaling Canva to Backing NZ’s Next Billion Dollar Startups ft. Mahesh Muralidhar | Episode 341

29 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

From scaling Canva to transforming New Zealand’s startup scene - Mahesh Muralidhar knows how to think big. In this episode, we unpack Mahesh’s jou...

Is NZ’s Economy at Risk? Trump Escalates Middle East Conflict | Episode 340

26 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Markets are rising, oil prices are spiking - but what does Trump’s strike on Iran mean for your money? We unpack how rising tensions in the Middle E...

How to Raise Money-Smart Kids | Episode 339

24 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

From digital dollars to chore commissions - here's how to raise money-smart kids. Makayla and Jess explore the best ways to teach kids about money...

Inflation Forecasting: Why Is Business Sentiment So Low? Ft. Matthew Harris | Episode 338

22 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Inflation is easing, rates are dropping - so why are Kiwi businesses still stuck in a rut? In this episode, we’re joined by Matt Harris, Managing Di...

Debt 101: Fixed, Floating & Revolving Explained | Episode 337

19 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Done right, debt can build wealth - not just cost it. We break down everything you need to know about the core types of mortgage lending in New Zealan...

End of Life Finances: What to Organise Now for Your Family’s Future | Episode 336

17 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

We get it no one likes thinking about their mortality, but planning now protects your family later. Makayla and Jess unpack the financial steps every ...

$0 To 20% Deposit In 2 Years: A First Home Buyer’s Story | Episode 335

15 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

From $0 to 20% deposit - here’s how Jordan did it. In this episode, we unpack the real-life journey of Jordan Hosking, who went from living paychequ...

What If NZ Introduced Capital Gains Tax in 2026 ft. Matthew Harris | Episode 334

12 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Is a capital gains tax coming to New Zealand? We’re joined by Matthew Harris, Managing Director at Lighthouse Financial, to unpack what CGT could lo...

Is 55 Too Old To Buy A House? | Episode 333

10 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Buying your first home at 55? It’s not as crazy or as simple as it sounds.In this episode, we unpack the financial trade-offs of buying later in lif...

Money Habits We Inherit: The Good the bad and the frugal | Episode 332

08 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

The way you spend, save, or stress about money? Chances are, you learned it at home.In this episode, we unpack the financial behaviours passed down th...

Trump’s Market Manipulation: Crypto and Meme Coins | Episode 331

05 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Trump’s crypto play is making headlines - but is it hype, hustle, or something more serious? In this episode, we break down Trump’s endorsement of...

James Sells His House Part 1 ft. Jono Barton | Episode 330

03 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Selling your first home? Here’s what you need to know before it hits the market. From valuations and setting the right price to fixing dodgy renos a...

Most Played Moment: How Does Compounding Interest Work? Ft Luke Kemeys

03 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Your most played moment of 2025: Compounding interest is your secret weapon to long-term wealth—if you know how to use it. In this episode, we sit d...

Investment Boost Explained: The New Tax Deduction That Will Save Kiwi Businesses Thousands Ft. Amanda Quill | Episode 329

01 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

The Investment Boost could slash your tax bill — but only if you know how to use it. Amanda Quill, Accounting Director at Lighthouse Financial, brea...

Switch and Save: How To Cut Your Bills In Half This Season | Episode 328

29 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Don’t let winter bills freeze your budget. We break down practical ways to save on power, gas, internet, and insurance by comparing plans, dodging l...

Investing 101: Future-Proofing Your Wealth | Episode 327

27 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Your no-nonsense guide to getting started with investing.We break down the four key asset classes — cash, bonds, shares, and property — explain th...

OCR Predictions: How much will they cut? | Episode 326

27 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

OCR cuts, budget moves, and Trump’s trade threats—everything’s in motion. We break down what’s likely next for the cash rate, how the 2025 Bud...

Debt-Free by 50: $5 Million Retirement Story | Episode 325

25 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Same income. Two very different financial futures.We dive into a powerful client case study — the story of “Bob,” a high-income earner whose fin...

Budget 2025 Explained: What the KiwiSaver Changes Mean for You | Episode 324

22 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Did the government get it right? We dive into the biggest shake-ups to KiwiSaver since the scheme began—Finance Minister Nicola Willis’ new 2025 B...

Q1 Property Market Update: Why We’re Buying When Everyone Else Isn’t | Episode 323

20 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

When everyone else is sitting still, we’re making moves. we unpack why now might be the smartest time to buy, even amid uncertainty, slow sentiment,...

KiwiSaver Changes Are Coming: Will the Government Get It Right? | Episode 322

20 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

The government’s about to drop major changes to KiwiSaver - here’s what you need to know before it hits. We break down what the National-led gover...

Should You Pay Down Debt Or Invest? | Episode 321

18 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Should you crush your mortgage or chase investment gains? We unpack one of the most common financial dilemmas Kiwis face—whether to prioritise debt ...

How to get ahead financially when you're single | Episode 320

15 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Being single doesn't mean falling behind. Jess and Makayla dive into practical, empowering ways single Kiwis can get ahead financially—whether it's ...

How to Help Your Kids Financially: The Smart, Sustainable Way | Episode 319

13 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Want to give your kids a leg-up without jeopardising your own retirement? We break down smart, sustainable ways to support your children financially—...

How The Rich Structure Their Finances Ft. Amanda Quill | Episode 318

11 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Trusts, tax hacks, and how the rich play the game. Amanda Quill, Accounting Director at Lighthouse Financial, breaks down the sophi...

Is Your KiwiSaver Ethical? Ft. Pathfinder CEO John Berry | Episode 317

08 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

We’re joined by Pathfinder CEO John Berry to unpack the grey areas of ethical investing, from greenwashing and responsible due diligence to AI’s e...

Recession Fears Rise: What’s REALLY Happening In The Market? Q1 Report | Episode 316

06 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Markets stumbled and optimism faded in Q1, as recession fears took hold and political uncertainty shook investor confidence.In this quarterly report w...

What Would Happen If Property Investors Disappeared? | Episode 315

04 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

What if every property investor in New Zealand vanished overnight? We explore the economic chaos that would follow - crunching the numbers, unpacking ...

The Cost Of Having A Hair Transplant: Is It Worth It? | Episode 314

01 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Hairlines, finance, and tough choices — is a hair transplant really worth it? In this episode, James shares his personal journey through getting a h...

The Governments Got Retirement Wrong: We Ran The Numbers | Episode 313

29 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Think you're all set for retirement? Think again. In this episode, Jess and Makayla break down why New Zealand Super and KiwiSaver might not cut it, a...

How Does Compounding Interest Work? Ft. Luke Kemeys | Episode 312

27 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Compounding interest is your secret weapon to long-term wealth—if you know how to use it. In this episode, we sit down with Luke Kemeys from Keep t...

Step-by-Step Guide: 10 Smart Tax Moves for the New Financial Year | Episode 311

24 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Start the new financial year on the front foot by getting your tax setup sorted early. Amanda Quill, Accounting Director at Lighthouse, joins us to s...

How Tariffs Have Hurt Your House Price and Mortgage | Episode 310

22 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Trump’s tariffs are making waves — but are they hitting the New Zealand property market? In this episode, we unpack how global economic uncertaint...

Do Gen Z Really Have It Harder? We Run The Numbers | Episode 309

20 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Boomers blame brunch, Gen Z blame broken systems — but who really had it tougher trying to buy a home in New Zealand? In this episode, we compare ...

Why Rental Prices Are Dropping And Vacancy Is Increasing | Episode 308

17 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Rents are falling and properties are sitting empty—what’s going on? In this episode, we break down why rental prices are dropping across New Zeala...

Creating Luke Kemeys Financial Plan | Episode 307

15 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Luke Kemeys is building serious wealth - without a mortgage, without the pressure, and 100% on his own terms. In this episode, we’re joined by Luke ...

Subscription Theft: The Hidden Cost You’re Not Noticing | Episode 306

13 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Subscription theft is costing Kiwis hundreds — and most don’t even realise it. Jess and Makayla break down how sneaky subscription traps are drain...

How To Sell Your House In 2025: The Do's And Don'ts ft. Alex Martelli | Episode 305

10 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Selling your home in 2025? The game has changed — and buyers are playing smarter than ever. In this episode, we sat down with Alex Martelli from Mar...

What Kiwis Should Do Now: Trump Market Crash | Episode 304

09 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Markets are tanking and Trump’s back with tariffs — but should Kiwis be panicking? In this episode, we break down what’s really causing the glob...

OCR Predictions: Orr Is Out, Tariffs Are In | Episode 303

06 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Adrian Orr steps down and Trump’s tariffs step up—this week, global finance is in flux and Kiwis are wondering what comes next. We break down wha...

Rent, Buy, or Hold? What To Do When Relocating | Episode 302

03 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Selling, Renting, or Holding — What’s the Smart Move? We answer a listener question about whether to rent, sell, or hold when relocating across th...

Midweek Short: Creating Iyia Liu's Financial Plan | Episode 301

01 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

We spotlight the best bits from our deep dive into Iyia Liu’s financial planning journey. From managing unpredictable income to navigating the chall...

Should You Buy Property with Friends? | Episode 300

30 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Buying a house solo can feel impossible—could teaming up be the answer? As housing affordability becomes more challenging, co-ownership is becoming ...

Gendered Pricing: Who is Paying More? | Episode 299

27 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Gender-based pricing affects more than just individual purchases—it has a lasting impact on household budgets and long-term financial wellbeing. In ...

Creating Iyia Liu's Financial Plan ft. Iyia Liu | Episode 298

25 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Iyia Liu has built and sold multiple successful businesses—now, she’s refining her personal financial plan. In this episode, we dive into her appr...

The Most Affordable Housing In NZ | Episode 297

23 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Looking to buy a home but struggling with high prices? In this episode, we explore New Zealand’s most affordable housing markets, the risks and rewa...

Nvidia Stock CRASH Incoming? Overpriced & Overhyped! | Episode 296

20 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Nvidia has been the hottest stock in AI, but is it all hype or solid investment? In this episode, we break down its 200% year-on-year revenue growth, ...

Intensification vs. Diversification | Episode 295

18 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Should you go all-in or hedge your bets? In this episode, we explore the key differences between intensification and diversification, breaking down ho...

The True Cost Of An Inheritance | Episode 294

16 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Think an inheritance is just free money? Think again! In this episode, we uncover the true cost of an inheritance in New Zealand—because while 50% o...

How To Financially Get Ahead In Your 20's | Episode 293

13 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Gen Z, listen up—this is the money talk you need! In this episode of The Takeover, Jess and Makayla break down the key financial lessons they wis...

How Trump is Shaping the Global Economy ft. Jarrod Kerr | Episode 292

11 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we sit down with Kiwibank’s Chief Economist, Jarrod Kerr, to unpack “Trumpnomics” and its ripple effects on global markets, trad...

Why You Should Buy A Negatively Geared Investment Property | Episode 291

09 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Why would anyone buy a property that LOSES money? In this episode, we break down the real strategy behind negatively geared investments—how short-te...

What School Should Have Taught You About Money | Episode 290

06 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

School taught us calculus, but did it ever teach us how to do our taxes or budget for rent? In this episode of Cheques & Balances, Jess and Makayl...

NZ’s Economy in 2025: Is the Worst Over? Ft. Kiwibank Chief Economist Jarrod Kerr | Episode 289

04 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Kiwibank Chief Economist Jarrod Kerr breaks down NZ’s economy, interest rates, and housing market. Are we on the road to recovery, ...

Ultimate Guide To Kid Friendly Investing | Episode 288

02 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore how to give your family’s next generation a financial head start. From smart savings strategies to unlocking the power...

What SMART Investors Always Look for in Properties! Ft. Adam Farrell | Episode 287

27 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we’re joined by Adam Farrell, Director of Lighthouse Property, to break down what smart investors always look for in properties. F...

How Much Do You REALLY Need To Retire? | Episode 286

25 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we tackle one of the biggest financial questions—how much do you need to retire? We break down the key factors, from lifestyle cost...

Step By Step Guide: How Financial Advisers Budget Their Money | Episode 285

23 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of The Takeover, Jess and Mikayla break down how they manage their own budgets, offering a step-by-step guide to structuring finances....

What To Do With Your KiwiSaver in 2025 | Episode 284

20 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we break down what you should be doing with your KiwiSaver in 2025, covering the top-performing growth and aggressive funds, socially...

How to Transition from Employee to Entrepreneur Without Going Broke Ft. Stanley Henry | Episode 283

18 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we sit down with Stanley Henry, CEO of The Attention Seeker, to discuss his journey of scaling a global marketing agency. Stanley sha...

OCR Predictions: What Rate Cuts Mean for Kiwis & Their Wallets | Episode 282

16 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we dive into our OCR predictions, what further cuts could mean for Kiwi mortgage holders, and how global events—like Trump’s econ...

Live Workshop: How To Maximise Your 2024 Tax Return Ft. Matt Harris | Episode 281

13 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Join Matt Harris and James Blair as they unpack everything you need to know for your 2024 tax return—must-know deductions, key compliance tips, and ...

Hey First Home Buyers! Don’t let Property Developers Trick You Ft. Adam Farrell | Episode 280

11 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we are joined by Adam Farrell Director of Lighthouse Property to uncover the sneaky tactics property developers use to make deals see...

5 Tax Hacks You Didn't Know About Ft. Matt Harris | Episode 279

09 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we're joined by Matt Harris, Managing Director here at Lighthouse Financial, as he shares his top tax-saving strategies. From hom...

Quarterly Update: Where Should You Invest in 2025? | Episode 278

06 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we break down the latest quarterly report, covering key market trends from October to December 2024, including the impact of a strong...

Make America Pay Again? What Trump's Tariffs Mean For NZ | Episode 277

04 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we break down what Trump’s tariffs mean for the New Zealand economy, exploring their global economic impact, the short- and long-te...

Should I Buy A House Or Invest In Stocks | Episode 276

02 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we tackle the age-old question: is it better to buy a home or rent and invest? We weigh the benefits of each option, from the stabili...

Why Capital Gains Tax Is A Good Thing For NZ | Episode 275

30 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we break down what a capital gains tax could mean for property investors, homeowners, and New Zealand’s economy. We discuss the pot...

The Best Time Of Year To Travel | Episode 274

28 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of The Takeover, we explore the best ways to save on travel, from booking flights at the right time to finding affordable destinations...

What Is An ETF? | Episode 273

26 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we break down what an ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is, cutting through the jargon to explain how they work, their benefits, and potentia...

How To Build Your Emergency Fund Fast | Episode 272

23 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Ready to take control of your finances? In this episode, we share actionable strategies to build your emergency fund—fast. Learn how to save your fi...

Termination Rules Every Landlord Needs To Know | Episode 271

21 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In our latest episode, we sit down with Sarina Gibbon, Head of the Auckland Property Investors Association, to break down the latest updates to New Ze...

Live Workshop: How To Build Your 2025 Financial Plan | Episode 270

19 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Join Mike and James as they break down the fundamental, actionable steps to creating a solid financial plan for the year ahead. In this webinar, they ...

The Psychology Of Money In 15mins | Episode 269

16 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we dive into the psychology of financial decision-making, exploring common biases like anchoring and loss aversion that can impact yo...

The Cost Of IVF: The Hidden Costs of Starting a Family | Episode 268

14 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of The Takeover, we dive into the financial side of family planning. From the costs of IVF to budgeting for egg freezing, we explore t...

5 Tips For First Home Buyers | Episode 267

12 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of The Takeover, Jess and Makayla share key insights and tips for first-time homebuyers, from avoiding common pitfalls to managing you...