At Super-Advice we are about all things financial, but more importantly, helping people understand so they can get ahead financially.
Most Kiwis work hard, yet struggle to build wealth. Why is that?
It’s not because they don’t earn enough—it’s because of hidden traps that keep them stuck. Breaking free requires understanding what’s holding you back.
Here are five key reasons keeping ordinary New Zealanders poor—and more importantly, how to escape the cycle.
The “She’ll Be Right” Mindset
Ignoring money problems until it’s too late.
New Zealand has a laid-back culture, and while that’s great for lifestyle, it can be dangerous for finances. Too many Kiwis put off budgeting, savings, and investing—assuming it’ll all work out in the end.
The problem is, time is your greatest financial asset, and every year you delay, you lose out on compounding growth.
How to break free:
Take control of your money now. Even small changes—like tracking expenses, setting up an emergency fund, or contributing more to your KiwiSaver—will put you ahead of the pack.
Lack of Financial Education
Schools don’t teach this stuff.
Most Kiwis leave school knowing how to dissect a frog—but not how to manage a budget, avoid debt traps, or invest in the future.
Without knowledge, people rely on what their parents did (who may not have been great with money) or what society tells them, which often leads to financial struggle.
How to break free:
Self-educate. Read books on personal finance, listen to podcasts, follow money coaches like me, and surround yourself with people who understand wealth building.
Predatory Marketing & Buy Now, Pay Later Traps
We live in a world designed to keep us spending.
From Buy Now, Pay Later schemes to constant ads pushing consumer debt, companies are making billions convincing people to spend money they don’t have.
Many Kiwis fall into these traps thinking it’s just normal. But normal is broke.
How to break free:
Start questioning your purchases. Ask yourself:
Do I need this?, Can I afford it outright?, Would future me regret this purchase?
Avoid debt for anything that doesn’t grow your wealth or improve your future.
Addictions & Escapism
Gambling, alcohol, takeaways, and more.
Many Kiwis work hard but spend even harder—on alcohol, takeaways, gambling, smoking, and entertainment.
While there’s nothing wrong with enjoying life, addiction-level spending on these things wrecks financial security. It’s a slow leak that drains wealth over time.
How to break free:
Track your spending for a month and see where your money is going. Cut down on unnecessary expenses and redirect that money into savings and investments.
Even small changes—like cooking at home or reducing gambling—can save you thousands every year.
Image Chasing & Fear of Missing Out (FOMO)
Social media and peer pressure fuel bad financial decisions.
People spend money they don’t have to keep up—buying expensive cars, designer clothes, and unnecessary tech. They take lavish holidays funded by debt, feeling pressured to live a lifestyle they can’t afford.
How to break free:
Shift your mindset from looking rich to being rich. Wealth isn’t about expensive stuff—it’s about financial security.
The truly wealthy don’t show off—they invest, save, and build a future where they no longer need to stress about money.
That’s a wrap
Saying no is hard, but once you master it, you’ll get a better grip on how you grow your wealth.
If you need any financial help or advice please get in touch with us at Super-Advice.
