More than 800,000 people have black marks on their credit history for defaulting on payments - and many don't know anything about it.

The cost of dying has taken on a new twist - you can now put a funeral on layby much like any other consumer good.

Feeling the pinch as you do the supermarket shopping this weekend? You're not alone - Kiwis really do pay more as a proportion of their incomes for everyday items than many overseas.

Domestic airfares are likely to rise because of Pacific Blue's departure from NZ and despite Jetstar's expansion plans, Consumer NZ says.

Taxes and security levies are keeping the cost of flights to and from Australia at unfairly high levels, according to a travel agent.

Unwary travellers are being stung by $1000 bills after using their phones and mobile broadband overseas - and the issue is on the Govt's radar.

A range of mother and baby care products containing a banned ingredient should be withdrawn immediately, says Consumer NZ.

Consumers are not wiling to pay fo sustainable products.

A new Air NZ regional discount card costs $800 for a 30pc discount.

More Americans are now making their own lunch, growing their hair long and catching public transport.

Women, middle-aged people and high-income households are under more financial stress than other New Zealanders, a survey has shown.

Over a third of kiwi households will have to use credit to pay for otherwise unaffordable expenses if the Reserve Bank increases interest rates in the coming months, according to a new survey.

The Commerce Commission has warned people to be careful when being offered holiday vouchers by telemarketers.