Making financial education easy and accessible

When our donors Sharon & Richard were travelling with their children they took the opportunity to teach them about money. They used the Banqer platform to keep primary aged Harry & Sienna engaged with their learning. It soon became the highlight of the school day for both children and parents. Harry and Sienna learnt about all things money and even purchased their first homes (on Banqer of course). Fast forward a few years, Sharon & Richard look back on the financial grounding their children had and the influence it has on how they make money decisions today.

Financial literacy is an essential skill for all individuals to make informed decisions about money and understand how to manage it effectively. This is particularly important for tamariki and rangatahi. The money lessons they learn when young, both good and bad, will likely stick with them through adulthood.

A survey conducted by the Commission for Financial Capability found that only 30% of young people aged 15-24 had a good understanding of basic financial concepts. Additionally, the same survey found that only 40% of young people in New Zealand were saving regularly, which suggests that many young people may not have the financial literacy skills necessary to make informed saving decisions.

Compounding these issues is the intergenerational impact of financial illiteracy. Research conducted by the New Zealand Federation of Family Budgeting Services, revealed that one in four children in New Zealand live in poverty. And one in five New Zealand children live in households that struggle to put food on the table. The study also found that low-income families have less access to financial education which can perpetuate the cycle of poverty and financial insecurity.

We all want the best for our children but why stop at that? Why can’t we provide all people in South Canterbury with the very best access to financial education. What if increasing our community’s overall financial literacy could result in dramatic positive effects like a reduction in crime, violence and social issues. Our donors believe it can, and they are looking for others to help in this mission to make a better South Canterbury for all.

Committee

Steve Fennessy - ANZ Agri Banker & Former School Principal

Kylie Connor – Mainland Insurance, Investment & Mortgages

Nicky Browne –ASB Home Ownership Manager

How we support South Canterbury Schools

The South Canterbury Financial Literacy Fund committee has evaluated several options to help schools deliver financial education in the classroom. They have selected Banqer as their recommended platform and are encouraging South Canterbury schools to consider offering this to students in 2026.

South Canterbury Primary Schools

Banqer is free for all primary-aged children in South Canterbury, thanks to the generous support of Kiwibank. Our committee is also happy to offer time and assistance to schools introducing Banqer—this could include training sessions or in-class visits.

South Canterbury Secondary Schools

Secondary schools wishing to run Banqer in 2026 may be eligible for a subsidy from the fund to help cover Banqer student licensing costs.

Become a regular supporter

Every child deserves the tools to thrive. By supporting the Financial Literacy Fund, you’re helping tamariki and rangatahi across South Canterbury build confidence, resilience, and lifelong money skills.

Your contribution ensures local schools can access high-quality financial education tools like Banqer, empowering students to make smart decisions about saving, spending, and investing.

Supporters can pay annually, quarterly or monthly. To find out more about supporting the fund, please contact Richard on 021 181 7141 or email richard@aorakifoundation.org.nz

Become a Supporter

Make a one time donation

Do you believe all children in South Canterbury should have the same access to financial education? Supporting this fund will help our schools and service providers deliver leading financial education where it is needed most. Your gift will be added to the existing endowment fund to provide ongoing financial literacy support across our region.

You can make an immediate one off or regular monthly donation below. All donations are eligible for a 33% tax credit.

If you would prefer to make a bank transfer or leave a bequest in your will, please contact us now.