Back to Blog

Small ways to ease pressure when everyday costs rise

Many households have noticed the impact of rising everyday costs in recent months.Fuel, groceries, utilities, and other regular expenses can fluctuate over time, and even small increases across multiple areas can add up. While these changes are often outside individual control, there are practical ways people may look to manage the impact.Small changes can add upWhen costs rise gradually, it can be easy to underestimate their overall effect.Rather than making large adjustments, many people find ...

What the latest KiwiSaver data tells us about long-term saving

Recent KiwiSaver data provides an interesting snapshot of how New Zealanders are saving for the future.Despite ongoing pressure from higher living costs, KiwiSaver balances and contributions have continued to grow, highlighting the important role the scheme plays in helping many New Zealanders build long-term financial security.At the same time, the data also shows that contribution patterns can have a significant impact on long-term outcomes.Contributions remain strong...

Why income protection works differently from other insurance

When people think about insurance, they often picture a lump-sum payment that would be made if something serious happens.Policies such as life or trauma insurance are designed to provide a one-off payment when specific events occur. Income protection insurance works differently.Instead of paying a single lump sum, income protection is designed to provide regular payments if illness or injury prevents someone from working for a period of time.Understanding how this type of cover works can help ex...

Cancelling insurance is easy, getting it back later may not be

There are many reasons someone might consider cancelling their insurance cover. Monthly budgets can change, priorities shift, or a policy put in place years ago may feel less relevant today.In many cases, cancelling a policy is relatively straightforward. However, what may be less widely understood is that reinstating cover later may not always be as simple.Understanding how insurance works over time can help people make more informed decisions about their protection.Cancelling a policy is usual...

Money confidence vs money perfection

When it comes to finances, many people quietly hold themselves to a standard of perfection.The “perfect” savings rate.The “perfect” investment mix.The “perfect” time to refix, review, or adjust.But financial wellbeing is rarely about perfection. More often, it’s about confidence.The pressure to get it exactly rightModern financial life involves constant decisions. Interest rates move. Investment markets fluctuate. Insurance premiums adjust. KiwiSaver contribution rates can change.W...

KiwiSaver contribution changes spark mixed reactions ahead of April increase

With the first step of KiwiSaver contribution increases taking effect on 1 April 2026, new survey results suggest many members are open to contributing more, even as questions remain about the impact on wages and business costs.From April, the default KiwiSaver contribution rate will increase from 3% to 3.5% for both employees and employers. A further increase to 4% is scheduled for April 2028.Many members intend to stay or increase contributionsA recent survey commissioned by ANZ Investments fo...

Health insurance costs under pressure in 2026

New Zealand’s private health insurance market is facing continued cost pressure, with medical inflation forecast to remain well above global averages.According to Aon’s 2026 Global Medical Trend Rates Report, medical plan costs in New Zealand are projected to increase by 18% in 2026, up from an estimated 17% in 2025.By comparison, the global average medical trend is forecast at 9.8%, with Asia-Pacific at 11.3%.What is driving the increase?Medical trend refers to the annual percentage increas...

The difference between being insured and being appropriately insured

For many people, having insurance creates a sense of reassurance. There’s comfort in knowing something is in place if life doesn’t go to plan.However, there is an important distinction between simply having insurance and having cover that’s suitable for your current circumstances.Having a policy in place does not automatically mean it still aligns with your financial responsibilities or long-term goals.When “some cover” feels sufficientIt’s common for people to have some level of pro...

Low-cost holiday ideas to make the most of summer

Summer holidays don’t have to come with a big price tag. With a bit of creativity and planning, it’s possible to unwind, make memories, and enjoy the best of the season without overspending. Here are some ideas to help stretch your holiday budget a little further this year.Explore closer to homeYou don’t have to travel far to feel like you’re on holiday. Many Kiwis overlook the simple joys of exploring their own backyard, whether it’s a day trip to a nearby beach, a local bushwalk, or ...

Understanding what’s behind rising health insurance costs

Health insurance premiums have been increasing this year, a trend that’s made headlines and prompted questions from policyholders. While the numbers can sound confronting, the underlying reasons tell a more balanced story. Higher costs don’t just reflect inflation; they also show more people using their cover, accessing treatment sooner, and relying on private healthcare to take pressure off the public system.According to RNZ, some customers have seen premium rises of around 25 percent. Insu...

Cancer cover: What to know and why it matters

Cancer is something no one likes to think about but it’s a reality that touches many New Zealanders, whether personally or through family and friends. Each year, around 25,000 people in Aotearoa are diagnosed with cancer.While survival rates are improving through continuous medical advancements, treatment can be a long and stressful journey both emotionally and financially. Having the right insurance in place can help relieve some of that pressure and give you access to timely care when it mat...

Why knowing your health insurance limits matters

Having health insurance can give you confidence that, if something goes wrong, you’ll be able to get treatment when you need it. It’s one of the reasons many New Zealanders choose to put cover in place, to avoid long waits, ease the financial pressure, and know their family will be looked after.What’s easy to forget, though, is that every policy has limits and exclusions. Knowing these upfront doesn’t take away from the value of your cover, it helps you get the most out of it and avoid a...

Why every business needs a plan for the unexpected

Running a business often means wearing many hats: from managing staff and clients, to handling finances and planning for growth. With so much on the go, it can sometimes be easy to overlook risks that could potentially disrupt everything you’ve worked hard to build. That’s where business insurance can come in.Business insurance isn’t just one type of cover. It’s a set of solutions that can be tailored to the type of business you run, and the risks you face. Having the right financial pro...

The value of keeping your cover through life’s changes

It’s usual to review your insurance from time to time. And certain life stages such as paying off the mortgage, children leaving home, approaching retirement, often prompt people to consider whether they still need the same level of cover.But before you reduce or cancel insurance, it’s worth taking a closer look at how your needs, risks, and goals are evolving.What risks are you still protecting against?Insurance isn’t just about income protection during working years. Even if your income ...

Simple habits linked to better daily wellbeing

A new international study has highlighted how everyday lifestyle choices can make a noticeable difference to young people’s wellbeing. The research, published in PLOS One in August 2025, found that even small improvements in sleep, diet, and exercise were linked to feeling better on the same day.The research combined three studies of young adults aged 17–25, with more than 1,500 participants across New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States. For two weeks, participants kept daily...

Health insurance for kids: what to consider

In New Zealand, we’re fortunate to have a generally strong public health system. Emergency care is free and of a high standard. If your child needs urgent treatment, they’ll be looked after. Children under 14 are also entitled to free GP visits, free prescriptions, and funded routine vaccinations.But when it comes to non-urgent care like specialist appointments or procedures that affect day-to-day life but aren’t classed as emergencies, waiting lists can be long. For some families, this ra...

Bridging the gap: Financial goals and real-life actions

Many New Zealanders are working hard to build better financial futures — setting goals, saving, and paying down debt. But according to new research released by the Financial Markets Authority (FMA), there’s often a disconnect between our financial intentions and our everyday decisions.The FMA’s May 2025 report, Good Cents: Kiwis on Savings and Debt, reveals that while a growing number of people are taking steps to improve their financial wellbeing, “stated financial goals don't always ma...

Understanding policy exclusions and why they matter

Insurance is designed to provide financial protection when life takes an unexpected turn.But to make the most of your cover, it’s essential to understand not only what conditions your policy includes, but also what it excludes. These exclusions can be easily overlooked, until a claim is made and something isn’t covered.What are policy exclusions?Exclusions are specific conditions, activities, or circumstances that are not covered by your insurance policy. These can include:Standard exclusion...

Hobbies that are good for your wallet (and your wellbeing)

Life can get busy — and between work, family, and financial commitments, it’s easy to forget how important it is to have something you enjoy just for yourself. Hobbies give us a chance to recharge, try something new, and even connect with others. And the good news? They don’t have to be expensive.In fact, some hobbies can actually support your financial wellbeing — either by saving money, reducing stress-related spending, or even building handy skills for the future.Here are a few wallet...

How inflation affects your insurance and why it matters over time

When we think about inflation, we usually picture rising grocery bills, fuel prices, or interest rates. But there’s another area where inflation can quietly make a difference – your personal insurance.If you took out cover a few years ago, the amount you insured yourself for may not go as far today as it did back then. And that’s something worth being aware of, especially when your policy is designed to protect your income, repay a mortgage, or support your family’s future.Why does infla...

What happens to your insurance after a health scare?

Thanks to modern medicine, unexpected health events—like injuries or serious diagnoses—aren’t always as life-altering as they once were. But they can still be confronting, and often lead people to reassess their priorities.One of those priorities might be your insurance.Whether you’ve recently experienced a health scare or just want to be prepared, here are a few key things to consider.If you already had insurance in placeIf you had cover at the time of your health event, you may have be...

FSC life insurance spotlight: Key trends and insights

The Financial Services Council (FSC) has released its latest quarterly spotlight on the life insurance sector, providing a snapshot of industry performance as of December 31, 2024. The data shows steady growth, evolving consumer trends, and a recovery in claims acceptance following past disruptions.Steady growth and changing patternsSince 2015, total growth in the life insurance sector has remained consistent at 2-5% year on year. The impact of seasonality on new business has decreased since 202...

Mental wellbeing: Staying positive and energised in autumn

As the vibrant days of summer transition into the crisp, cooler months of autumn, many people notice a shift in their mood and energy levels. Shorter daylight hours and a drop in temperature can sometimes bring a sense of sluggishness or low motivation. However, with a few simple adjustments, you can maintain a positive mindset and stay energised throughout the coming season.Mindfulness for a clearer mindPractising mindfulness can help manage stress and improve overall mental wellbeing. Techniqu...

Four ways to check your insurance is up to date

Your insurance is like a safety net, that can provide financial protection for you and your loved ones when life’s unexpected events occur.However, your life doesn’t stand still - your needs, goals, and circumstances can change over time. That’s why it’s essential to regularly review and ensure your insurance is up to date, so that your financial safety net remains purpose-fit to your current situation.A regular review with an insurance adviser can help address any potential gaps in cove...

How to check if you might be underinsured

When it comes to protecting yourself and your loved ones, having the right insurance for your specific needs is important. Being underinsured means your insurance may fall short during major life events, like an unexpected loss of income or the passing of a loved one. Identifying gaps in your insurance early can help ensure you’re adequately prepared.Here’s what to consider:Assess your financial commitmentsTake a close look at your financial responsibilities, both current and future. These c...