Archive: Publications

Ngā Tāngata Microfinance, a non-profit organization committed to supporting financially vulnerable New Zealanders, welcomes the Commerce Commission’s recent penalty against a lender charging up to 182.5% interest on high-cost loans. The Commission has imposed a $200,000 penalty, underscoring the critical role of the Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Act (CCCFA) and responsible lending practices in protecting vulnerable borrowers from exploitative financial practices. Considering the penalty Interest charged by that lender, Ngā Tāngata Microfinance reaffirms its commitment to offering ethical, interest-free loans designed to provide New Zealanders with a “hand up” rather than a “hand-out.” The organisation also stresses the vital importance of robust regulatory frameworks like the CCCFA to prevent predatory lending practices that can trap vulnerable borrowers in cycles of debt. See full Press Release below: Press Release

Our new General Manager Vijay Farley-Naiker and Board Chair Racheal Monks and Trustees hosted our Annual General Meeting on Friday. We want to start by acknowledging the incredible work of our whānau, our board, and our partners—those who have been instrumental in driving our kaupapa forward and uplifting our communities, step by step. A heartfelt thank you to Kiwibank, Booster Foundation, Foundation North, Tech, Ministry of Social Development (MSD), and all of our generous private donors. Your continued support is vital to the success of the mahi we do, and we couldn’t make the impact we do without you. Ngā Tāngata Microfinance was founded by Dr. Claire Dale with a clear vision: to empower those in our communities who often face barriers to accessing traditional financial systems. For us, finance is not just about numbers—it’s about creating opportunities, building resilience, and fostering independence. Despite the progress we’ve made, we know that many in our communities still face challenges, and we are here to make a real difference. Reflecting on the past year, We are incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved: We received 324 applications through our Financial Mentor network, with 62% of these approved—resulting in 201 loans issued, totalling $603,896….

Please read our latest annual report.

This years report has the theme: Costs... of Living / Nga Rourou Whakaiti. This theme acknowledges the burgeoning cost of living and the pressure this is putting on people's lives. Read full 2023 State of the Nation Report

We are proud to present our latest annual report.

Our 2022 Client Survey helped us understand our clients financial well-being.  It helped to confirm that NTMT loans and financial mentoring support can play an important role in breaking the cycle of unmanageable debt.  See a snapshot of the findings here. Download 2022 Client Survey here

For many New Zealanders the consumer credit lending experience is generally positive, with many credit lenders complying with regulations. Credit law reforms including the recent changes to regulations signal a commitment from the government to ensure lenders are diligent in their duty of care towards consumers. However, our concern, despite the current credit laws, many vulnerable families and communities continue to be exploited through irresponsible and harmful lending practices, most often through short-term high-cost loans. Download Beyond the Shadow of Debt Report

Dr Claire Dale, Chairperson of Ngā Tāngata Microfinance discusses the coming storm for New Zealand’s future retirees: still renting and not enough savings to avoid poverty. Read full article - The Coming Storm

A report from the Financial Services Council (FSC) continuing their 2021 research projects that focus on money and you. This report focuses on ‘KiwiSaver At A Crossroads’, highlighting that, with KiwiSaver funds comprising NZ$82 billion (US$62 billion)1 of the US$50 trillion global retirement savings market, New Zealanders have some way to go to prepare for a comfortable retirement. Download report

Kore Hiakai Zero Hunger Collective report.