What to know about changes to KiwiSaver

The 2025 KiwiSaver changes to know about:

Younger members are now included: People aged 16 and 17 now qualify for government contributions (if they meet other eligibility requirements). Previously, you had to be 18 or older.
The government’s contribution has halved: The annual government KiwiSaver contribution has reduced by 50% – dropping from $521.43 to $260.72 per year.
High earners no longer qualify: Anyone earning over $180,000 of taxable income in a year is no longer eligible for government contributions.

While the above KiwiSaver changes have already been implemented (they took effect on 1 July 2025) there are still more changes to come, including the phased introduction of increased default KiwiSaver rates.

In times of uncertainty, investors with a plan should stick with the plan

Over the past few days as global politics create uncertainty and global share markets have responded, I thought it would be good to reflect on markets and provide some perspective on what is happening and as investors, what can or should we do about it, especially when it comes to our investments & KiwiSaver funds.

The longer I’ve been in this industry, the more my perspective on market downturns—corrections, recessions, and the like—has evolved.

Financial Planning for Your Retirement

Planning for retirement is a crucial step toward ensuring financial security in your later years. A key part of this process is determining your "retirement number"—the amount of savings required to maintain your desired lifestyle.

Understanding this number helps shape your savings strategy and investment decisions, guiding you toward a comfortable and secure retirement. 

You can’t put a number on happiness

“What is your number?” That is the catch phrase of a popular advertisement that runs and re-runs amongst financial advising companies.

These types of campaigns are popular as many people will have a jolt of panic at some point just past mid-life, where they think, “Will I have enough for my retirement? I’d better get prepared.” Having a target ‘number’ can help you to understand just how big the mountain you must climb, really is.