Budget Calculator NZ
50/30/20 monthly budget from take-home pay.
NZ$
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%
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Default 50/30/20 rule.
Savings each month
$1,100.00
From $5,500.00 take-home
| Needs (rent, groceries, transport, bills) | $2,750.00 |
|---|---|
| Wants (lifestyle, dining out) | $1,650.00 |
| Savings / debt payoff | $1,100.00 |
About this calculator
The 50/30/20 rule allocates take-home pay to needs (50%), wants (30%) and savings or debt repayment (20%). It's a simple sanity check — not a strict rulebook — and works as a starting point before refining a line-item budget.
- Needs = rent or mortgage, groceries, power, internet, public transport, insurance, minimum debt repayments.
- Wants = dining out, streaming, travel, hobbies, gifts.
- Savings = emergency fund, KiwiSaver beyond the auto-contribution, extra debt payments.
- In Auckland and Wellington the 50% bucket usually breaks first — rent alone often consumes 35–45% of take-home pay.
Frequently asked questions
Is 50/30/20 realistic in NZ right now?
For many households, no. Treat it as a target — most Kiwis temporarily run 60/25/15 or even 65/25/10 and aim to grow the saving share over time.
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Calculator NZ provides general information only. For decisions with significant financial, medical or legal consequence please consult a qualified professional.