As 2025 rapidly comes to a close, many of us will take a moment to reflect on the year that has been.
What story did we write about our faith, our relationships, our work, and our money?
For many, it has been a year of two halves. At times, the cost of basics like food, petrol, and power made life feel tight. Yet, on the other hand, we’ve seen encouraging progress in our financial foundations. Retirement savings in the Pension Fund, The Retire Fund, and Christian KiwiSaver Scheme continued to grow. Mortgage interest rates eased, offering much-needed relief to many households.
Through all of this, our money quietly reflected our values: the things we prioritised, the people we supported, and the goals we kept inching toward, even when inching was all we had the energy for. Our faith has been tested on several fronts this year, yet we’ve prevailed; perhaps a little more resilient, a little wiser, and better prepared for life’s challenges.
2026 is only weeks away. A new chapter waits to be written.
What story do you want to tell next year?
Perhaps it’s a story of progress, moving closer to being debt-free, contributing more confidently to your retirement, or lifting your game in ministry (whether lay or ordained). Maybe it’s one of consolidation and simplicity, bringing your savings and investments together to protect and support your lifestyle. Or perhaps you’re just getting started, and 2026 is the year you learn more, gain clarity, and feel more in control of your time, treasure, and talents.
Wherever you are on your financial journey, a whole new year of opportunity lies ahead. So what can you do to write the first verse?
- Write a “Financial Intention” instead of a Resolution
Resolutions disappear faster than leftover pavlova.
Instead, choose one guiding intention for 2026, something like Clarity, Consistency, Courage, or Thoughtfulness.
Let that intention gently shape all your decisions—financial and family and faith—throughout the year. - Notice one pattern – Not all of them
You don’t need a 12-tab spreadsheet. Just pay attention to one behaviour for a month: weekend spending, grocery blowouts, impulse purchases, or those easy takeaway choices.
Awareness—rather than pressure—is what creates change.
- Add one values-shaped habit
Don’t be too hard on yourself.
Choose one small practice that aligns your finances with your values: a monthly money review, a moment of reflection before a large purchase, or a generosity goal that feels joyful rather than heavy.
A story you can feel aligned with
You cannot control interest rates or the economy. But you can shape how you respond. Faith reminds us that what we do with what we have, however much or little, matters deeply.
So take a moment to listen:
What story did your money tell in 2025? And more importantly, What story do you want it to tell in 2026?
The next chapter is still blank, and you get to hold the pen.
The New Zealand Anglican Church Pension Board trading as Anglican Financial Care is the manager and issuer of Christian KiwiSaver Scheme, The Retire Fund and The New Zealand Anglican Church Pension Fund. Product Disclosure Statements and Fund Updates are available here: https://angfincare.nz/news-and-knowhow/forms-and-documents/