Seven ways to have fun and enjoy treats even when strapped for cash

Feeling broke? You’re not alone — and you’re not out of options, writes Frances Cook.

It’s no secret that the cost of everything has gone up and, as tough as last year was for employment, it's predicted that around the globe there will be many more redundancies in 2025.

What a lovely economy to be part of.

If you’re trying to cut back and stick to a budget while you frantically build up the emergency savings, you’re far from alone and it doesn't have to mean life is bleak.

When our income doesn't cover the essentials of life – a warm and dry home, healthy food, adequate clothing, basic medical care, bus fare – it's a tough scenario and one faced by far too many. But as long as you can cover the basics, you can enjoy life and even the odd little treat. It's all about looking around and being open to the possibilities.There’s a surprisingly good amount of stuff available for free, often right in the back yard.

Here are my favourite ways to entertain myself, learn something new, or just get out of a financial funk, without spending a cent.

Public libraries are one of the greatest underrated services we have.

Most are hooked up to apps like Libby, BorrowBox, or ePlatform, which means you can borrow ebooks, audiobooks, and even stream movies from your phone, for free. Yes, free. Yes, legally.

If you haven’t checked your local library system lately, it’s worth a look. You don’t even have to be a city-dweller to do it – almost all libraries are on board, and you often don’t even have to go into the library to access the digital options.

Rejoice, fellow rural people. We don’t have to drive all the way in to the big smoke in order to borrow some light entertainment

Just sign up online, download the app, and boom: you’ve got a digital bookshelf that would make your 13-year-old self weep with joy.

Paying for multiple streaming platforms quickly turns into a budget buster, but some of them are free.

In New Zealand you'll find loads of free viewing options on the main TV networks.

Another free option is Tubi which has a lot of fans for its big content library.

Yeah, you’ll pay with ads. Boohoo, it costs to make this stuff, you have to have some form of payment.

The ads give you time to make a cup of tea or check your phone, just like the old days.

Museums and galleries aren’t just for out-of-towners or school trips. Many of them are totally free to visit, and they rotate exhibitions so there’s always something new to see.

A rainy weekend with the kids? Try the airport.

Seriously. Plane spotting never gets old when you’re five (or, if we’re being honest, 35).

Grab a coffee, find a viewing deck, and let the aviation magic happen.

Not raining? Look for a local botanic garden, or hike.

Bonus tip: some cities offer free walking tours, or discounted entry to heritage sites if you’re a local. Check your council website. You never know.

This one’s for the bargain hunters… and unfortunately, only the North Island.

New World has a "hot chicken guarantee", where they promise to have hot roast chickens available to buy between 10am and 8pm.

If they’ve sold out? You can ask for a voucher for a free one.

It’s on their website, and it’s a real policy.

You don’t get any free eats these days, so this is a handy one to keep in the back pocket, especially if you’re feeding a family on a budget.

Roast chicken, a loaf of bread, and a bag of slaw? Dinner for four, under $10. Or less, if you got that hot chicken voucher.

Sometimes the best catch-ups don’t happen over $26 brunch. They happen on a long walk, with a $5 takeaway coffee and a mate who gets you.

Whether you’re city-bound or rural, there’s almost always a good walking track nearby. Parks, beaches, riverside paths will all delight the senses, and the kōrero is often better when you’re side-by-side instead of across a café table.

Plus, if you’re anything like me, your mental health thanks you for moving your body and getting some fresh air.

Financial wins and endorphins? That’s the dream.

Feel like learning something new, but can’t afford another student loan? There are actually quite a few free study options in New Zealand.

Just plug "free courses NZ" into Google and you’ll find offerings from Open Polytechnic, SIT (Southern Institute of Technology), Wintec, and more.

Some are online and fully flexible, so you can study in your own time.

These aren’t just fluffy modules either — we’re talking real qualifications in business, IT, health, and more.

Perfect if you’re thinking about a career pivot, or want to skill up without taking on debt.

Use it as fuel for that pay rise or promotion.

Or just enjoy a few evenings stimulating your brain instead of scrolling your phone.

Raising kids on a budget? Toy libraries are a godsend.

For a small annual fee (some are even free), you can borrow toys the same way you’d borrow books. Much less clutter, and no more frustration about expensive purchases that get ignored after two weeks.

Meanwhile clothing swaps can be organised through your local school, community centre, or even online groups.

They’re a brilliant way to refresh the wardrobe without spending a cent. Kids grow so fast that clothes are often barely used before they’re outgrown.

So you can get quality bargains, and save your dollars for all the other expensive parts of life.

You don't actually need to be a parent to appreciate a clothing swap. Mull some wine or brew some homemade lemonade and invite a bunch of your friends to come over on a weekend afternoon with any good quality clothing items they just don't wear. You know the ones: a bit too big, a bit too small, you don't need to dress for the office anymore, or it's just not your colour. Someone else will love it and no doubt you'll get to go home with something new that you love too. Cost: zero.

The information in this article is general in nature and should not be read as personalised financial advice.