Moni Ora is grounded with its roots in the Tairāwhiti community
who we are
Moni Ora is a non-profit organisation that is committed to helping people
plan better to live better.
We are a small team of qualified Financial Mentors who offer free professional and confidential budgeting support to individuals and families who want help.
It is our aim to help people build financial capability and resilience by finding workable solutions to the financial challenges they face.
Registered as an incorporated society since 16th February 1982
Registered with Charities Services since June 2008, CC28561
what we do
Moni Ora financial mentors provide invaluable support to individuals and families throughout Tairāwhiti. Sessions are free and confidential, offering support with managing financial challenges and improving financial skills.
Financial mentors can support with
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Exploring options and creating a step-by-step financial plan.
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Budgeting and debt management.
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Hardship applications—creditor negotiations, KiwiSaver, property rates, and insolvency options.
A session with a financial mentor gives you dedicated time to take a critical look at your finances and identify ways to improve them.
A mentor listens without judgment and respects your privacy. We understand that discussing finances can be a personal and challenging topic. However, sharing your concerns with a mentor may help reduce stress.
We’re here to help you find options that you might not have thought about.
Things always seem more manageable when you have options.
Our Values
Whakaute – to respect
Respect to all through manaakitanga and whānaungatanga, hospitality and connection.
Tautoko – to support
Free, Confidential, Non-judgemental assistance to all without discrimination.
Support with empathy and understanding to empower people to take control of their finances.
Muna – to talk privately
Total confidentiality in all matters according to the provisions of the Privacy Act 2020.
Noho Haepapa – to be accountable
All staff display reliability, integrity and accountability.
Hōnore te Tiriti – Honour the Treaty
Te Tiriti o Waitangi is fundamental to Moni Ora's operations. The Principles of Partnership Protection and Participation are reflected in daily practices.
Whakangungu – to support staff
All staff are trained and qualified. Moni Ora ensures all staff have the appropriate resources and professional development to deliver services competently to the communities of Tairāwhiti.
...a little history
Gisborne Budget Service has been providing free budgeting support to the Gisborne community since the early 1960s. It began as a national initiative launched by a group of dedicated volunteers in response to the financial challenges that arose from the introduction of credit products in the post-war era.
From its volunteer beginnings to where it stands today, the Service has undergone a significant transformation. Yet, the fundamental principles of budgeting remain as relevant as ever.
For many years, Gisborne Budget Service worked out of a one-room office on Peel Street. But as community demand grew, the service relocated to larger premises in Cobden Street in September 2011.
Then came a significant change in service delivery, shifting from volunteer budget advisors doing it for you to financial mentors who collaborate with you.
A financial mentor partners with you instead of taking control. They respect your autonomy in making decisions at every step. Whether you're learning new skills or exploring options, you lead the conversation and determine what is right for you. The service changed its name to 'Moni Ora' to reflect this user-friendly approach.
Since 2017, Moni Ora has provided Building Financial Capability (BFC) services that are client-centred and strengths-based.