Trouble meeting your debt repayments?

With increases to food, rent, interest and fuel – are you having trouble meeting your debt repayments?

If you are struggling to make repayments then it’s best to talk to the person or organisation you owe money to (the creditor) as quickly as possible.

If you are unable to repay a consumer credit contract because of an unexpected change in your financial circumstances, you may be able to negotiate more manageable repayments under the hardship provision. The lender must consider all applications made under this provision.

You can speak to a financial mentor and they might be able to help you prepare for negotiation with your creditors, by helping you work out a realistic payment plan.

Depending on your situation, you could ask the creditor about:

  • smaller repayments so the amount you owe is repaid over a longer time;
  • taking a repayment holiday for a period of time

It is in the interest of most lenders to work out something for anyone in this situation.

If you have any questions or help with finding a financial mentor phone 07 827 4855 or 0800 367 222, call in to 62 Alpha Street, email [email protected]

  • This article was provided by Citzens Advice Bureau, Cambridge.

More Recent News

News in brief

Updated 8 May 2025, 6.45pm  88 people experience gastro symptoms The National Public Health Service in the Waikato has been notified of a suspected gastroenteritis outbreak involving 88 people linked to the Waipa Business Awards…

New citizens welcomed

Becoming a New Zealand citizen is often a family affair and that was the case for the Jade family of Cambridge last week. Mrunualini, Mahendra and Nikita have waited 21 years since they left India…

Racing into air force

The idea of completing a trade apprenticeship sparked Briarna Blackmore to look at what was available in the New Zealand Defence Force. Blackmore, 18, from Cambridge has just completed the 12-week recruit course at Royal…

Going to war with pedal power

The role cyclists played in World War I was on display at the recent Cambridge Cycling Festival including the fact that Adolf Hitler was one of them. The festival was held on Anzac Day and…