The New Zealand Reserve Bank did not raise the official cash rate in February, keeping the rate at the record low of 2.5%. The Reserve Bank has indicated that the cash rate should not rise until at least April and is probably likely to stay the same until the middle of 2010.The official statement from the Reserve Bank’s Governor, Alan Bollard, is very similar to the one released in December, however, it is slightly more positive. While the New ...more »

Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese practice. The use of Feng Shui enhances your chances of obtaining more wealth, success, and happiness in your life. Make a few easy changes to your kitchen area, so you will benefit from an improved lifestyle.Creating an Ideal KitchenBegin creating an ideal kitchen by making a few small changes. Remove clutter from your kitchen. Replace crockery, cutlery, and table linen that you do not like with new items that ...more »

Children are capable of learning how to manage money from a very early age. It is never too early to teach your child money management techniques. A teenager, taught how to manage money as a child, will be better able to cope with a changing financial world.Purchase a Piggy Bank for your PreschoolerOnce your young child is capable of putting coins into a piggy bank, she is ready to learn how to manage her money. Your child’s first piggy bank ...more »

Although storms can occur without warning, you can prepare for stormy weather. Storms can cause more damage than other natural events. It is important to protect your home and property from storm damage. If you are well prepared, you can minimize the damage a storm can cause to your home and other assets.Protect your Home Before a Storm OccursHere are a number of regular chores you can perform to help ensure your home remains safe during a ...more »

Property sales dropped dramatically across New Zealand throughout January as investors held off on purchasing property amid the confusion over what tax reforms the New Zealand government would make. The Tax Working Group released a report in early January that recommended the government remove the right of investors to claim depreciation on a rental property, which would make investment in property more expensive.The second recommendation by the ...more »