KiwiSaver was designed to help protect the future of working New Zealanders and get them the retirement lifestyle they want. While it pays to start planning now, choosing the right fund can be tricky, not to mention finding a provider that aligns with how you would like your money handled. We think it’s time more Kiwis knew the benefits of retirement saving made easy, so we’re here to help show you how KiwiSaver can work for you.

Our services provide you with:

  • Quality, no-cost financial advice from an industry expert

  • A recommendation based on your own circumstances and goals that you can action at the click of a button

  • Finding the right type of fund for your age and goals that puts more money in your pocket

  • The confidence of knowing you’re proactively optimising your investment and not missing out on any generous incentives

  • Time: it takes less than 20 minutes on your own computer, tablet or phone – no meetings required

The right advice is crucial to ensuring your money is working smarter for you. That’s where our advisers can help.

With over a decade of experience and a commitment to making a positive change to your life, they will unravel those complexities with our complimentary KiwiSaver Service.

Are you aware of how to maximise the government's contribution to your KiwiSaver account?

With over a decade of experience and a commitment to making a positive change to your life, they will unravel those complexities with our Complimentary KiwiSaver Service.

Have you actively chosen your KiwiSaver fund, or are you still in a default option?

Many Kiwis are still in default KiwiSaver funds, which are essentially holding pens until an active choice is made.

These default funds may not align with your individual goals and risk tolerance. Actively choosing your KiwiSaver provider and fund is crucial, as it allows you to select a fund that aligns with your ability, goals, and timeline, potentially leading to better retirement outcomes.

Have you ever sought professional advice for your KiwiSaver investments?

Only a small fraction of KiwiSaver members, about 3 out of every 1,000, seek advice on their KiwiSaver investments.

However, getting professional advice can make a significant difference, potentially adding hundreds of thousands to your retirement savings. Professional advice can help tailor your KiwiSaver account to your specific needs, ensuring you're in a fund that suits your goals and risk tolerance.

Do you know the best KiwiSaver contribution strategy for your employment status?

Adjusting your contribution based on your employment status and financial capacity is key to maximising KiwiSaver benefits.

For those on the PAYE tax system, the minimum KiwiSaver contribution is 3% of your gross salary, with options to increase it to 4%, 6%, 8%, or 10%. For self-employed or non-PAYE earners, contributing regularly, such as $20 per week or $87 per month, can ensure you receive the maximum government contribution.

Are you clear on how your employer's contributions to your KiwiSaver are taxed?

Employer contributions to your KiwiSaver are subject to tax.

While employers are required to contribute a minimum of 3% for those on PAYE, this amount is taxed, which is why you might notice a difference on your pay slip between your contribution and your employer's. Understanding this tax implication is important for accurately assessing your total KiwiSaver contributions.

Do you understand the fee structure of your KiwiSaver scheme?

KiwiSaver providers typically charge administration and percentage fees, and sometimes a performance fee, depending on the provider.

These fees are deducted directly from your KiwiSaver scheme. It's important to consider not just the fees themselves but the value for money they represent, as they can vary significantly between providers and impact your investment returns.

Do you know when and how you can access your KiwiSaver funds?

You can access your KiwiSaver funds at retirement age, currently 65, and use them as you see fit.

Additionally, KiwiSaver can be used for purchasing your first home after three years of membership, where you can use your contributions, your employer's contributions, investment returns, and government contributions, leaving a minimum of $1,000 in your account.

Are you aware of how to manage your KiwiSaver in special life circumstances?

KiwiSaver offers flexibility in special circumstances.

If you permanently emigrate, you can transfer between KiwiSaver and Aussie Super Plans. In the event of premature death, your estate can access your KiwiSaver account. For serious illness or financial hardship, you may gain access to some or all of your KiwiSaver funds, depending on your situation.

How do you choose a KiwiSaver provider that aligns with your financial goals?

It's important to select a provider and fund that aligns with your financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment philosophy to maximise your savings over time.

Choosing the right KiwiSaver provider involves considering factors like whether they are New Zealand owned and operated, not bank-owned, have active managers, provide clear communications, consistently perform well, and offer value for money.

What Our Clients Say...

JOSHUA AND KIRSTYN

Paying off their home loan faster!

"We usually just go through the bank for everything but someone recommended LifeFirst to us and we are thankful they did. Our home loan was refinanced quickly and we are actually paying less per payment now and are paying our home off faster. We also have our personal insurance plan in place and still have more money left at the end of each month than we did before."

TIM - AUCKLAND

Got the home loan he wanted!

"Hi Maria. Just wanted to thank you for getting me over the line with the new loan. Thinking back on the last year, it’s been quite an emotional journey for me, and decisions haven’t been easy. I know there was a lot of ‘moving parts’ with this and I appreciate your patience, really clear explanations, and your empathy throughout. I’m sincerely grateful and will enthusiastically recommend your services to anyone if I get the opportunity."

Paying off their home loan faster!

JOSHUA AND KIRSTYN

Paying off their home loan faster!

"We usually just go through the bank for everything but someone recommended LifeFirst to us and we are thankful they did. Our home loan was refinanced quickly and we are actually paying less per payment now and are paying our home off faster. We also have our personal insurance plan in place and still have more money left at the end of each month than we did before."

TIM - AUCKLAND

Got the home loan he wanted!

"Hi Maria. Just wanted to thank you for getting me over the line with the new loan. Thinking back on the last year, it’s been quite an emotional journey for me, and decisions haven’t been easy. I know there was a lot of ‘moving parts’ with this and I appreciate your patience, really clear explanations, and your empathy throughout. I’m sincerely grateful and will enthusiastically recommend your services to anyone if I get the opportunity."