Money Matters: journalist Tova O'Brien

She’s used to asking important questions about the Government’s finances. Now, journalist and host of her eponymous breakfast show on Today FM, Tova O’Brien shines a light on her own money matters.   

What’s your relationship with money like? Are you a spender or saver? 

I wish it was better but it’s notoriously tragic, which probably answers the second part of the question. My first boss in journalism and mentor, Gordon McBride, was horrified when he hired me at TV3 in 2007 and learnt that I had no savings. He gave me a stern talking to and I started tucking some away, but the only way I could properly save back then was to send a small monthly sum to my dad to hide from me. 

What’s the best financial advice you’ve received?

Make sure you have financial independence. That was from my brilliant executive producer at Today FM Carol Hirschfeld. It affirmed something I think I’ve intrinsically understood since my first payday from my paper stand on Wellington’s Lambton Quay as a kid: financial independence equals real-life independence. Back then, it was the independence to buy Coco Pops growing up in a sugar-free house, but the principle remains. 

Any financial regrets?

I have a weakness for old cars, which has cost me. I’m currently trying to get a 1974 Mercedes back on the road, which is proving far more difficult and expensive than first thought. If I can afford to finish the work, I’m hoping regret turns to rejoice. 

What was your last big splurge?

See above! In a moment of madness when I moved to Auckland and needed a car, I rinsed my savings to get the rust repairs done. Everything feels very expensive right now though, so there’s been nothing too extravagant for a while.  

What are you saving for?

Just to have savings again. Having depleted them, I’m very mindful of the need to have a buffer just in case. Gordon McBride’s warning still echoes! I’ve also been with Kiwisaver since it started, which was the only way – based on my savings track record – I was able to buy a house. I still contribute as much as I can via Generate Kiwisaver, so I’m also saving for retirement. 

Has your job as a political reporter influenced your views on money?

The most important thing for us on Budget Day was finding and speaking to people the Government’s budget directly impacts – either helping or failing to help. It’s the most important thing about almost all political reporting – taking it back to the people at the heart of the policy or story. You need to be able to talk to and represent people from all financial backgrounds. The same applies to hosting a radio show on Today FM; it’s one of the most rewarding things about journalism, the people you meet and the different perspectives they give you.  

You’ve previously worked in Melbourne and London’s hospitality scenes. Did you learn any valuable money lessons there?

I think those stints overseas were probably when I undid most of the valuable money lessons I’d learnt! I was young, travelling and having a good time, but I did work hard. People in hospo are extremely hard-working so I like to think my work ethic comes from my hospitality background. 

Tova O’Brien hosts Tova alongside journalist Carly Flynn, weekdays on Today FM from 6:30am to 9am.

Read more from AA Directions magazine while you're here: 

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