Best Financial Planning for Retirees in New Zealand (2026)

Written By Paul Souliac

Financial planning for retirees in New Zealand means focusing on steady income, smart investments, and protection against risks. With NZ Super providing a base, many add personal savings and advice to live well. Good retirement planning helps map out cash flow and goals. Discover the best financial planning for retirees in New Zealand in 2026.

This guide covers top services, key steps, and tips tailored for 2026. Whether shifting from work or adjusting budgets, the right approach builds confidence. Retirees often face health costs or market changes, so personalised strategies matter. 

Discover the Best Financial Planning for Retirees in New Zealand - Compound Wealth

Understanding NZ Super and Its Role in Retirement

NZ Super forms the core of income for retirees aged 65 and up. It pays out every two weeks, taxed as income. Eligibility needs residency checks, but most qualify after living here long enough. This payment covers basics like housing and food, yet leaves gaps for extras like travel or hobbies. Pair it with other sources for fuller support. Many retirees blend it with savings or part-time work. Think about how it fits your needs early.

After setting up with NZ Super, look into ways to boost returns. For instance, KiwiSaver accounts let savings grow over time through contributions and employer matches. Some use these to fill income holes. Tools like cash flow models from the best financial planning for retirees in New Zealand show future scenarios, helping avoid shortfalls. Stay updated on policy shifts that could affect payments.

Common Challenges Retirees Face in Financial Management

Retirees deal with rising living costs, health expenses, and market ups and downs. Inflation bites into fixed incomes, making budgets tight. Health needs can surge without warning, draining reserves. Markets fluctuate, impacting investment values. Address these by diversifying assets and reviewing plans yearly. Build buffers for emergencies.

In 2026, focus on adaptive strategies. Private wealth management offers custom solutions for complex situations. Some retirees downsize homes to free cash. Track expenses closely to spot other forms of waste. Use government tools for extra aid if eligible.

Best Financial Planning for Retirees in New Zealand (2026)

1. Compound Wealth - Best Financial Planning for Retirees in New Zealand

Retirement planning at Compound Wealth stands out with its personalised touch for New Zealand retirees. Based in Mount Maunganui, this firm draws on over a decade of expertise to craft strategies that fit your life stage. They use advanced cash flow modelling to project outcomes and keep you on track. Whether nearing retirement or already there, their advice simplifies risk and reward, focusing on high-quality investments at the right level. Clients get ongoing support, clear communication, and reviews to adjust as needed. This approach builds clarity and peace of mind, letting you enjoy retirement fully. 

Their open-architecture solutions provide global diversification and specialist tactics not found in standard options. Retirees appreciate the bespoke portfolios that align with long-term goals, avoiding generic funds. Standout features include tailored KiwiSaver switches, performance comparisons, and goal resets. Their methods lead to better growth and protection, trusted by thousands across the country. Key pros shine in flexibility and expert guidance that adapts to changes.

About Compound Wealth

Compound Wealth is a leading financial advisory firm based in Mount Maunganui, New Zealand. Founded in 2017 by Adam, we specialise in personalised KiwiSaver advice and investment planning for Kiwis nationwide. 

Our mission: Deliver clarity, confidence, and better outcomes through bespoke strategies tailored to your life. We advise on over $130 million in assets, trusted by over 2,500 clients across the country.

Our Services

Discover expert financial solutions tailored for New Zealanders seeking optimised KiwiSaver advice, retirement planning, and private wealth management. As leading KiwiSaver advisers in Mount Maunganui, we help you maximise savings, transfer pensions, and build secure futures with personalised investment strategies.

KiwiSaver 

Investments

Why Choose Us?

  • Personalised approach: No one-size-fits-all funds.

  • Advanced cashflow modelling for future insights.

  • Access to global diversification and specialist strategies.

  • Over 10 years of expertise in KiwiSaver and investments.

  • Direct support from knowledgeable advisers like Adam and Bruce.

  • No call centres – just committed, ongoing guidance.

We use international research and proven methods to grow and protect your wealth effectively.

Ready to Take Control of Your Finances?

Book a free consultation with our experienced KiwiSaver and wealth advisers today.

2. NZBritannia

NZBritannia, headquartered in Auckland, New Zealand, delivers retirement planning with a focus on pension transfers and long-term security. With many years in the field, they guide retirees through complex setups like moving UK pensions to New Zealand. Their team handles paperwork and compliance, aiming for tax efficiency and growth. Services cover investment advice and estate planning, helping clients maintain lifestyles post-work. Retirees find value in their approach to blending overseas assets with local options, creating balanced portfolios that withstand market shifts. They emphasise clear communication, ensuring clients understand each step without jargon. 

This firm stands out for expats, offering insights into cross-border rules that others might overlook. While strengths lie in specialised knowledge for international ties, some note that options for purely local savers could expand. Overall, they suit those with global backgrounds seeking structured plans that protect wealth over time. Clients appreciate the thorough assessments that factor in personal goals, health considerations, and family needs. By prioritising sustainable growth, NZBritannia helps retirees enjoy freedom without financial stress. Their process includes regular reviews to adapt to life changes, keeping plans relevant. This dedication builds trust, as many return for ongoing support.

  • Pension transfer expertise, investment portfolios, estate guidance, tax efficiency tools, cross-border advice.

  • Handles transfers smoothly for many clients, focuses on compliance and growth metrics, supports expat transitions effectively.

3. Cambridge Partners

Cambridge Partners operates from Christchurch, New Zealand, offering retirement planning that emphasises nest egg management and simplification. They build long-term plans to navigate post-work years, including asset allocation and drawdown strategies. Retirees benefit from their holistic view, covering taxes and inheritance. The firm uses detailed projections to forecast income needs, helping avoid shortfalls. With a team focused on client relationships, they provide personalised sessions to discuss goals and risks. This approach suits those wanting thorough oversight without daily involvement. 

Strengths show in comprehensive analysis, where they integrate various income sources for stability. However, some find the process lengthy due to in-depth consultations. Cambridge Partners excels in educating clients on market trends, empowering better decisions. They offer tools for scenario planning, like what-if analyses for health or travel expenses. By diversifying investments, they aim to protect against inflation and volatility. Retirees often praise the calm guidance during uncertain times, fostering confidence. The firm's commitment to ethical practices ensures recommendations align with values. Overall, this service delivers peace through structured, adaptable strategies that evolve with life stages.

  • Asset management, tax optimisation, inheritance planning, projection tools, diversification strategies.

  • Supports many in maintaining funds, uses models for future scenarios, promotes ethical alignments.

4. Lifetime

Lifetime, based in Tauranga, New Zealand, provides retirement advice alongside KiwiSaver and investments. They create plans for financial security, including insurance and home loans. Retirees get help with budgeting and goal setting, making transitions smoother. The firm integrates multiple aspects of finance, offering a one-stop shop for needs like income protection and estate setup. Strengths include a broad service range that covers everyday concerns, allowing retirees to focus on enjoyment. Though coordination across areas can vary, their team works to streamline processes. 

Lifetime stands out by tailoring advice to individual circumstances, such as health or family dynamics. They use simple tools to track progress, keeping clients informed without overwhelm. For those in later years, they emphasise sustainable withdrawals to preserve capital. This holistic method helps build resilience against unexpected costs. Clients value the accessible language and ongoing check-ins that adjust plans as needed. By combining investments with protection, Lifetime aids in creating balanced retirements. Their focus on education empowers users to understand options fully.

  • Integrated planning, insurance ties, budget tools, goal customisation, progress tracking.

  • Aids some in achieving goals, draws on team experience for outcomes, simplifies complex finances.

5. DecisionMakers

DecisionMakers in Wellington, New Zealand, specialises in investment strategies and retirement plans. With combined expertise spanning many years, they tailor approaches for unique goals. Services include portfolio building and risk assessment, ideal for retirees seeking stability. They delve into personal situations to recommend mixes of assets that match comfort levels. Strengths appear in custom tactics that consider long-term horizons, helping preserve wealth. While less emphasis on quick adjustments might suit steady planners, it could limit reactive needs. 

DecisionMakers uses data-driven insights to forecast outcomes, providing clarity on potential paths. Retirees benefit from their focus on diversification, reducing exposure to single risks. The firm promotes regular reviews to refine strategies amid changes. Clients appreciate the straightforward explanations that demystify investing. By prioritising client education, they foster informed choices. This service excels for those preferring depth over speed, building foundations for secure futures. Their process involves initial assessments followed by implementation and monitoring, ensuring alignment with evolving priorities.

  • Portfolio customisation, risk tools, goal alignment, data forecasts, regular refinements.

  • Applies knowledge to many plans, focuses on long-term stability, enhances decision clarity.

6. Milestone Financial

Milestone Financial, located in Auckland, New Zealand, advises on retirement, KiwiSaver, and insurance. They guide clients towards objectives with clear steps, simplifying the journey. Retirees value their support in savings growth and protection, creating buffers for leisure. The firm breaks down complex topics into manageable parts, aiding understanding. Strengths lie in straightforward advice that avoids confusion, making it accessible for all levels. 

Some seek more advanced options beyond basics, but Milestone excels in foundational planning. They offer sessions to map out income streams, integrating pensions and investments. By focusing on personal stories, they craft relevant strategies. Clients find comfort in the reliable follow-ups that keep plans on track. This approach helps retirees navigate transitions with ease. Milestone emphasises practical tools for daily management, like budget trackers. Their commitment to transparency builds lasting trust.

  • Savings growth, insurance advice, objective setting, income mapping, follow-up support.

  • Helps some build reserves, uses simple methods for clarity, aids smooth transitions.

7. Milford Wealth Management

Milford, headquartered in Auckland, New Zealand, manages wealth with retirement focus through experienced teams. They handle investments and planning for post-work life, aiming for growth and security. Retirees get assistance in portfolio optimisation and risk balancing. The firm draws on global insights to inform local strategies, diversifying across markets. Strengths include broad perspectives that enhance returns, though indirect costs might accumulate. 

Milford suits those wanting professional handling without micromanagement. They provide market updates and adjustment recommendations to stay ahead. By integrating research, they select opportunities that fit retiree profiles. Clients benefit from the emphasis on sustainable practices, aligning with long-term views. This service delivers confidence through expert oversight and adaptive tactics.

  • Investment decisions, team expertise, wealth oversight, market updates, sustainable selections.

  • Manages assets for many, applies market knowledge effectively, promotes adaptive growth.

8. Savvy Wealth

Savvy Wealth in Wellington, New Zealand, promotes comfort in retirement through planning that builds confidence. They address money worries with knowledge-driven strategies, helping retirees relax. Services include goal setting and investment guidance tailored to later life. Strengths show in user-friendly approaches that make finance approachable, while narrower scope might not cover all complexities. 

Savvy stands out by focusing on emotional aspects, easing stress around funds. They use workshops and tools to educate on basics, empowering self-management. Retirees appreciate the practical tips for everyday budgeting and spending. By prioritising simplicity, they help avoid common pitfalls. This firm fosters a supportive environment for discussions, leading to personalised paths.

  • Confidence building, knowledge sharing, stress reduction, workshops, budget tips.

  • Guides some towards relaxed retirements, emphasises practical insights, supports emotional well-being.

9. FSG Wealth

FSG Wealth, based in Hamilton, New Zealand, offers retirement strategies for clarity and peace. They develop financial paths that suit individual situations, focusing on security. Retirees get help with asset protection and income planning. Strengths lie in supportive planning that nurtures relationships, but some desire faster results. FSG uses assessments to uncover needs, crafting balanced solutions. They emphasise ongoing dialogue to refine approaches. Clients value the focus on holistic well-being, integrating health and lifestyle. This service aids in navigating uncertainties with calm guidance.

  • Strategy development, clarity focus, peace-oriented, assessments, ongoing dialogue.

  • Provides direction to many, uses insights for better paths, integrates life aspects.

10. Become Wealth

Become Wealth in Auckland, New Zealand, aids retirement through wealth creation and planning. They include non-investment services like mortgages, offering full views. Retirees benefit from combining elements for comprehensive security. Strengths appear in diverse offerings that cover gaps, though integration varies. Become Wealth tailors advice to growth stages, helping sustain lifestyles. They provide tools for monitoring progress across areas. This approach suits those with multifaceted needs, building robust foundations.

  • Wealth building, mortgage ties, diverse services, monitoring tools, growth tailoring.

  • Supports some in growth, combines elements for full pictures, addresses varied concerns.

11. Rutherford Rede

Rutherford Rede, headquartered in Auckland, New Zealand, is a privately held financial advisory firm that works with individuals, families, trusts, foundations, and charities. They provide advice that prioritises client interests and simplifies financial affairs, with a strong emphasis on responsible and sustainable investing. For retirees, their services help at various life stages, including managing wealth to maintain lifestyles and protect assets long-term. The firm builds long-term client relationships, often keeping the same adviser throughout. 

Strengths include unbiased advice due to partner ownership, avoiding commissions or biases, and research-backed recommendations. While no specific retiree programmes are highlighted, their general approach suits those seeking ethical, tailored guidance. Some might find the focus broad rather than specialised. Rutherford Rede integrates due diligence with sustainable principles, ensuring investments align with values. Clients benefit from a team with deep experience in technical skills and emotional intelligence. This creates trusting partnerships for ongoing support. By focusing on simplification, they help retirees navigate complexities without stress.

  • Unbiased advice, sustainable investing, long-term relationships, research-backed plans, ethical alignments.

  • Serves many across life stages, promotes responsible practices, builds trust through consistency.

12. Forsyth Barr

Forsyth Barr, with offices nationwide in New Zealand, delivers investment advice and services tailored for wealth generation. For retirees, they offer KiwiSaver schemes to maximise savings opportunities, along with alternatives to term deposits like diversified portfolios. Their programmes help in planning post-work finances through personalised advice and market analysis. Strengths lie in a large team of qualified professionals providing confidential, expert guidance, with a history of trust in the market. 

The firm supports various investor types, including women through specific initiatives. While no explicit weaknesses appear, the broad network might dilute local focus for some. Key aspects include access to research reports and a range of investment options for stability. Retirees can use their tools to explore strategies beyond basics, ensuring growth and protection. This service emphasises New Zealand ownership, fostering local economic ties. Clients get ongoing support to adjust plans as needs change.

  • KiwiSaver management, diversified portfolios, market analysis, personalised programmes, research access.

  • Aids many in wealth building, draws on extensive expertise, supports varied investor needs.

13. Craigs Investment Partners

Craigs Investment Partners, headquartered in New Zealand, offers wealth management and advisory services with a strong retirement focus. They manage retirement wealth to protect and achieve desired lifestyles, including transfers of UK pensions and Australian superannuation to local options. Their superannuation and KiwiSaver schemes provide personalised investments for flexibility. Strengths include enduring family relationships built on trust, award-winning research, and nationwide presence for accessible service. 

The firm aligns investments with client values through sustainable options. While managing large funds, some might experience less hands-on for smaller accounts. Craigs helps retirees with tailored portfolios that consider risks and goals. Their community focus extends to for-purpose organisations, adding social depth. Clients appreciate the integrity-driven approach that spans generations.

  • Pension transfers, personalised schemes, sustainable investing, portfolio tailoring, community management.

  • Serves many clients effectively, applies research for outcomes, fosters long-term trust.

14. Private Wealth Advisers

Private Wealth Advisers, headquartered in New Zealand, is a boutique firm providing specialist financial services to individuals, trustees, and others. For retirees, they offer bespoke investment solutions and portfolio management, focusing on long-term relationships and goals. Their process includes goal identification, plan presentation, implementation, and reviews. Strengths shine in independence, creating custom solutions without off-the-shelf products, and transparency in fund management. 

The fee-only model ensures unbiased selections via due diligence. While the boutique nature might limit scale, it allows deep personalisation. Retirees benefit from hand-tailored advice suited to lifestyles and risks, with regular updates. Clients highlight the freedom in investments and sound guidance over time.

  • Bespoke solutions, independent advice, transparent management, goal-focused process, regular communication.

  • Prioritises client requirements, builds lasting partnerships, ensures flexibility in choices.

15. Booster

Booster, headquartered in Wellington, New Zealand, offers KiwiSaver, investments, and financial advice for retirement planning. They help retirees build savings and transfer UK pensions, growing wealth through diverse funds. Their app serves as a hub for tracking and managing finances. Strengths include ethical investing options and support for financial resilience. 

The firm contributes to local innovation, aiding community ties. While no weaknesses are noted, the app-centric approach might suit tech-savvy users best. Booster provides personalised guidance on paths, including budgeting tools. Retirees can align investments with values for meaningful growth. This service emphasises know-how to empower decisions.

  • KiwiSaver building, pension transfers, ethical funds, app management, budgeting tools.

  • Serves many New Zealanders, promotes resilience, supports value-aligned growth.

Tax Considerations for Retirees in 2026

  • Taxes impact retirement income in New Zealand. NZ Super counts as taxable, so plan withholdings. 

  • Investments like shares or rentals add to returns but bring duties. 

  • Use credits for low earners. Some retirees qualify for rebates on rates or energy. 

  • Keep records for accuracy.

  • Diversify to minimise hits.

  • UK pension transfer options help bring overseas funds home efficiently. 

  • Review yearly to stay compliant. 

  • Seek advice on structures that protect assets.

Investment Strategies Beyond Basic Savings

Build wealth with balanced mixes.

 Stocks offer growth, bonds provide stability. 

  • Property rentals generate flow, but manage upkeep. 

  • Retirees favour low-risk picks to preserve capital. 

  • Rebalance as markets shift.

Australian super transfers allow consolidating funds from abroad, while compound portfolios give structured growth paths. Match choices to your comfort level.

Health and Lifestyle Costs in Retirement

  • Health expenses rise with age, covering checkups and meds, so budget for premiums or self-fund. 

  • Lifestyle choices like hobbies or trips add joy but need funding. Some cut non-essentials to stretch dollars.

  • Risk assessment quiz tools help gauge tolerance for plans. 

  • Global growth bitcoin tilt KiwiSaver adds modern edges to traditional setups. 

  • Prioritise wellness for longer enjoyment.

FAQ

What makes retirement planning different in 2026?

Retirement planning in 2026 puts more weight on blending multiple income streams to handle ongoing economic adjustments. Tools like cash flow projections become key for visualising long-term scenarios amid policy tweaks. Personalised approaches, including retirement planning, adapt to individual lifestyles for better outcomes. Staying flexible with reviews ensures plans evolve with personal circumstances.

How do I start with KiwiSaver for retirement?

Kick off by assessing your current contributions and fund choices to align with retirement goals. KiwiSaver options vary, so compare growth potential based on risk levels. Regular adjustments keep the account optimised as life changes occur. This setup provides a foundation for supplementing other income sources effectively.

Can overseas pensions boost my NZ retirement?

Overseas pensions can enhance your financial base by adding diversity to income. Processes like UK pension transfer or Australian super transfers streamline bringing funds over with tax considerations in mind. Proper handling avoids common pitfalls and supports overall stability. Integrating these with local plans creates a more robust setup.

Where to get free advice on retirement finances?

Free advice often starts with initial consultations that outline your unique situation. Resources cover basics like budgeting and asset allocation without cost upfront. A free consultation opens doors to tailored insights on topics such as investments. Government portals provide general info, while experts add depth for specific needs.

Discover the Best Financial Planning for Retirees in New Zealand - Compound Wealth

Paul Souliac
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