Meet Fergal O’Neill: Helping Wānaka Families Make Sense of Money

A Simple Idea That Makes a Big Difference

“Your personal wealth can be considered as your assets minus your liabilities.”

It’s a simple idea, but for Fergal O’Neill, it’s one of the most powerful lessons he’s learned in a career dedicated to helping people take control of their finances.

From Ireland to Wānaka

Originally from Ireland, Fergal’s journey to Wānaka has taken him through Scotland, Argentina and Auckland. With a Bachelor’s degree in Business and Economics and a Master’s in Economics and Banking from Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, he began his career in New Zealand as a loans analyst with UDC Finance, where he developed a deep understanding of lending, debt, and the risks of payday finance.

But it’s not just numbers that drive him. Drawn to Wānaka by a love of mountains, hiking and running, and his partner’s work opportunities, Fergal has found a place that feels like home. And now, he’s giving back to the community in a very practical way.

Supporting People Through Financial Pressure

As a qualified financial mentor (FinCap), Fergal works with Family Works, within Presbyterian Support, offering free, confidential support to individuals and families navigating financial pressure.

He is particularly passionate about helping people get on top of debt, understand their rights, and rebuild confidence when things go off track.

“Most people I see didn’t plan to get into difficulty,” he says. “Something unexpected happens, a car repair, a change in income, and it can be really hard to recover without support.”

A Practical Place to Start: Money Matters Clinic

That’s where the Friday Money Matters Clinic comes in.

Held weekly at the Community Hub on McDougall Street from 11am to 12:30pm, the clinic offers free, private 20-minute sessions with no booking required.

People can drop in for advice on budgeting, managing cash flow, dealing with debt, understanding entitlements (including Working for Families and IRD), or simply getting a clearer picture of where their money is going.

Real Tools for Real Life

Fergal’s approach is down-to-earth and practical. One of his key pieces of advice?

“Write down your budget and track everything you spend. Once you can see where your money is going, you can start to take control of it.”

He also helps people navigate more complex situations, from understanding credit options to supporting families through separation or financial shocks, always with a focus on long-term wellbeing.

Building Confidence and Clarity

The clinic sees a mix of locals and newcomers. Many arrive feeling nervous or unsure, but leave with something far more valuable: clarity, confidence, and a plan.

“There’s real relief when people realise they’re not alone, and that there are options,” Fergal says.

Support When It Matters Most

As winter approaches and household costs rise, his advice is especially timely.

Small changes like switching off unused appliances and being mindful of power use can make a noticeable difference to electricity bills.

Fergal works across Wānaka, Cromwell and Queenstown, and through his connections with local support services, he’s often able to help people access the right assistance quickly.

Free, Local, and There for You

The Friday Money Matters Clinic is free, confidential, and open to anyone — no suits, no pressure, just practical help when you need it.

Drop in any Friday between 11am and 12:30pm at the Community Hub, McDougall Street.

If you need more time, follow-up appointments can be arranged — even offsite — at a time that works for you.

Because in today’s environment, where every dollar counts, having someone in your corner can make all the difference.