Cost of a Baby Calculator

This calculator helps expecting parents in New Zealand work out the real cost of a baby's first year, combining the one-off setup costs with the ongoing costs and the income lost while a parent is on leave. You enter the one-off cost of a cot, car seat, pram and other gear, plus any other one-off costs, then your ongoing monthly costs for nappies, food and other essentials. On the income side, you enter how many weeks your household income will be reduced for, how much your weekly income drops by during that time, and any support you expect to receive over the year, such as paid parental leave or Best Start payments. The calculator adds your setup and ongoing costs, adds the total income drop across your weeks of leave, then subtracts your expected support to return the estimated net cost of the first year, alongside a breakdown of the upfront and ongoing costs, the income gap, and the support received. Many parents focus on baby gear and overlook the income drop, which is usually the largest single item, so use this tool to see the full picture and build a savings buffer before the baby arrives rather than being caught out. Figures are for planning purposes only and will vary with your own income, leave arrangements and spending.

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One-off setup costs

Ongoing

Income on leave

The income drop while on leave is often the largest part. Paid parental leave and Best Start reduce the net cost, so include the support you expect to receive. Childcare costs may begin if you return to work. Estimate only, to help you plan and build a buffer.