Having a great Christmas on a budget

Households on a budget can still have a special Christmas without getting into financial debt, according to Kirstie Brown, from Kate’s Place  community house in Kaiwaka.

Kirstie is warning people not to be tempted into using Afterpay, a recently popular credit service that allows online shoppers to make purchases with borrowed money at the click of a button.

“We all want to give our kids nice pressies at Christmas, but the reality is if you haven’t got it, you shouldn’t spend it,” Kirstie says.

She says buying on a budget is easier than it sounds, especially for small children, who are easily pleased by receiving lots of little gifts like sand spades, balls, games or arts and craft.

“Technology obsessed teenagers are harder, but for those who can’t afford the latest game or gadget, top-ups for online stores are a good option.”

For adults, Kirstie says op shops can be a good source of inspiration and, failing that, a bottle of wine or their favourite coffee or cheese is an easy and affordable purchase.

Attractive wrapping also doesn’t have to be expensive or wasteful with natural alternatives like pohutukawa and flax being great options for bows and decoration.

For those who are feeling crafty, there are instructions online for turning cardboard rolls into Christmas crackers filled with lollies, which are cheaper and produce less waste.

Rather than getting sucked into the expensive tradition of a Christmas ham or turkey, buying a large roast chicken and stuffing it with cranberry sauce and serving with roast vegetables and salad is an equally tasty treat. For children’s desserts, homemade mousses and jellies always go down well, while pavlova and trifle keep everyone happy.

To keep Christmas light and fun for everyone, Kirsty recommends saving drinking until after children have gone to bed.

“Just enjoy yourself and be grateful for living in such a beautiful country, and be grateful for our families and friends, our health and wealth and freedoms.”

Kirstie says people who ignore Christmas because they are on their own could consider volunteering at community dinners and events.

“Put yourself out there and take a risk, and at the very least you will make someone else’s Christmas better than it would have been without you.”

She says if you are in a position to give, then sharing donations of food or children’s gifts are welcome at Kate’s Place.

“If you or a family you know are in need please let us know,” she says.

Info: Phone 431 2661