Having a baby is exciting, so you don't want money worries spoiling things.
If you're a working mother, take a look at your household income and expenses, then adjust it to see what life will be like after baby comes. If you have any high-interest debt, try to pay thatoff first.
Paid Parental Leave is a government-funded payment that helps cover working mothers' loss of income when they take parental leave - for up to 14 weeks. If you're not eligible, you may be able to get the parental tax credit - paid for eight weeks.
Before you spend lots on baby gear, talk to experienced parents about what you really need.
You can save by buying secondhand goods and buying nappies in bulk, or using cloth nappies. Plunket offers a car seat rental service, toy libraries and other services to make parenthood more affordable. They also have an online baby budget calculator.
Childcare will be one of your biggest expenses if you or your partner returns to work, so shop around. Work and Income's childcare subsidy helps cover the cost for children under five.
Consider life insurance. If you already have it, check your policy before baby is born. Consider other insurances, such as income protection, but check your budget first.
Make or update your will. It's important to nominate a legal guardian for your child in case you both die.
