Saving money is hard work. Here are five ideas to help you save some money.

1. Be a quitter

Quit smoking, quit drinking so much, quit the weekly takeaways, or the daily caffeine/lunch buying habit.

2. Review your living costs

Could you get another flatmate in, or a boarder? Could you move in with family? Do you really need Sky / landline / best-ever ultrafastest internet package?

3. Labels are for jars

Own-brand / non-label goods are often just as good as their more expensive counterparts.

4. Energy is expensive

Check out www.powerswitch.org.nz and www.energywise.govt.nz for the best deals and energy-saving ideas.

5. Cut down on luxuries

Holidays are a luxury, so are meals out, Jimmy Choos and nights on the town.

Remember, it's short-term pain for long-term gain

The information contained in this article is of a general nature and should not be taken as advice. It reflects the opinions of the writer only and does not necessarily reflect the opinions of New Zealand Home Loans.