Perlina Lau has carved out a unique position in New Zealand media, cutting across mediums as the host of Radio New Zealand National’s arts show Culture 101, and star and producer of TVNZ+’s Creamerie.
What attracted you to working in media and entertainment?
I grew up doing a lot of performing arts: dancing and speech and drama and music. I had a work experience type thing at TVNZ before I started uni, and I just got hooked on working in the newsroom. I've always loved it. There's a certain adrenaline involved with it, being in-the-know. And every day is different.
Perlina Lau, radio host and actress. Photo by Jessie Casson.
How have you found juggling being a broadcaster and a TV star?
It's been really amazing to be able to do both. I feel very lucky. I feel like there's two sides of me and they satisfy the different parts, I suppose. At Radio New Zealand we're a weekly show and it's more immediate, more fast-paced, it requires different skills. When I shoot Creamerie, that is at a completely different pace. It's longer days but in some ways there's more consideration because it's a slow process. And of course, I get to flex my acting muscles.
Is it important to be good with money when working in media?
I think the reason why I've always had one stable job is because I do worry about money. I like to have a steady role going somewhere and then I can feel better about doing side gigs. I really admire people who do freelance and contract work. I think it's hard work and it takes a certain kind of hustle and bravery. I'm very lucky that I've loved my broadcasting job, I've always loved it, so I've never wanted to give that up either.
In general, does money matter to you?
I suppose money means opportunities and freedom. I don't think I'm a particularly materialistic person; for me it means being able to choose what you want to do and go traveling and that sort of thing.
Are you a spender or a saver?
I think I'm actually both, if that's even possible. If I want to spend on things, I find a way to make extra money to pay for it. I feel guilty about dipping into savings, so I'll go and find an extra gig or an extra side hustle to cover it. I'll very rarely think I can't afford something; I'll think, how can I afford it? I find a way.
'For me, money means being able to choose what you want to do and go traveling and that sort of thing.' Photo by Jessie Casson.
Were you taught about money growing up?
I had parents who worked really hard, seven days a week, every day of the year. I had that work ethic role-modelled from a very young age. They were pretty open about money. It could actually be partially a cultural thing as well. I was always very aware of what school fees were, what extracurricular activities cost. There was an awareness that things don't just happen – it requires hard work, it requires saving, and it requires budgeting. That was something made very clear to us.
Do you use a budget? What do you spend your money on?
I don't have a physical budget written down, but I have a rough one in my head. And most of my spending money, to be honest, goes towards food. I love going out to eat with friends, going out to dinners – I already know that if I have to rein in any spending, it'll be on food. It’s too tempting being in Auckland!
Story by Emily Draper for the Spring 2024 issue of AA Directions Magazine. Emily Draper is the Deputy Editor of AA Directions magazine.
Explore more from AA Directions magazine:
- Explore the secret attractions of the Wairarapa region.
- Retro beauty: a 1983 Honda CRX Ballade Sport.
- Ten days at sea on the Spirit of Adventure can change a life.
