Best Investment Advisers for Retirement Planning in 2026

Written By Paul Souliac

Planning for retirement means finding the right support to grow your savings and manage risks. In New Zealand, many people turn to skilled investment advisers who understand local rules and global markets. These professionals help with KiwiSaver switches, portfolio building, and cash flow forecasts. Discover the best investment advisers for retirement planning in 2026 in New Zealand. 

Discover the Best Investment Advisers for Retirement Planning in 2026 - Compound Wealth

Why Choose Independent Advisers for Your Retirement

Independent advisers give clear views without pushing certain products. They look at your whole picture, from current savings to future needs. This setup helps avoid hidden fees and fits your risk level. In New Zealand, rules make sure advisers act in your best interest. Many clients find peace knowing their plans use diverse options like shares and bonds. Plus, they often handle transfers from overseas pensions smoothly.

Retirement planning becomes simpler with experts who map out long-term paths. Some advisers include tools to check your risk comfort, like quizzes that guide fund choices. This leads to better outcomes over time.

Key Trends in Retirement Investing for 2026

Global shifts affect New Zealand retirement plans. Rising costs push people toward diversified portfolios with international reach. Advisers now blend tech for quick updates and personal touches. Sustainability matters too, with funds avoiding harm to the planet. Many Kiwis benefit from advice that includes Australian super transfers or UK pension transfers. Advisers help balance growth with safety, using models to predict cash needs. This keeps retirement dreams real.

Best Investment Advisers for Retirement Planning in 2026

1. Compound Wealth - Best Investment Advisers for Retirement Planning

Compound Wealth delivers top-notch advice tailored for Kiwis aiming for a secure retirement. This firm shines with its open-architecture model, letting you pick from a wide range of high-quality managers without bias. They craft plans that grow wealth over decades, blending KiwiSaver tweaks, diversified portfolios, and cash flow projections. Imagine having a roadmap that aligns your savings with life goals, whether it's travel or family support. 

Their team brings years of know-how to spot opportunities in global markets. Clients rave about the clarity and control, turning complex choices into simple steps. Standout features include personalized risk assessments and ongoing reviews to keep things on track. Facts and information show their strategies help many build stronger nests through disciplined, goal-focused investing. What sets them apart is the focus on long-term protection, making sure your funds weather ups and downs.

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 cash flow 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

  • 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 your path to a brighter retirement with Compound Wealth now.

2. Cambridge Partners

Cambridge Partners, headquartered in Christchurch, New Zealand, offers solid financial advice with a keen eye on retirement goals. This firm helps clients navigate wealth management through custom plans that adapt to life changes. They provide holistic support, covering investments and future security. Their team of experienced advisers builds and manages portfolios, supporting clients through various life stages. They emphasise fee-only advice to ensure unbiased recommendations. Clients often value the personal touch in planning, which includes goal setting and ongoing management. 

However, some find the traditional methods less tech-savvy, preferring more online tracking options. Overall, they suit those seeking steady guidance in a complex market, with a focus on long-term financial health. The firm's approach integrates investment strategies with retirement needs, helping Kiwis achieve their desired lifestyles. Strengths include deep market knowledge and client-centred service, while weaknesses might involve slower adaptation to digital innovations. This makes them a reliable choice for comprehensive retirement planning.

  • Key features: Custom portfolio construction, ongoing wealth management, focus on long-term financial security.

  • Facts and information: Many clients achieve balanced growth through diversified strategies, with emphasis on adapting to personal circumstances.

3. NZBritannia

NZBritannia, based in Auckland, New Zealand, brings deep experience to retirement planning and financial advice. They assist Kiwis in shaping retirements that fit personal dreams, using strategies drawn from years in the field. The firm covers pension advice and investment options, helping demystify complex steps. Their services include KiwiSaver guidance and wealth building, aimed at secure futures. Clients appreciate the strong relationships and clear communication. 

On the flip side, some find processes a bit lengthy for urgent needs. Positive aspects feature tailored approaches that consider individual goals, while a potential drawback is a lean toward conservative investments, which may not suit high-growth seekers. NZBritannia stands out for its commitment to client terms in retirement, offering tools for pension transfers and savings optimisation. This firm appeals to those wanting established expertise in navigating New Zealand's financial landscape.

  • Key features: Pension and investment guidance, personalised retirement strategies, client-focused support.

  • Facts and information: Some retirees benefit from their tailored approaches, leading to confident financial futures.

4. Craigs Investment Partners

Craigs Investment Partners operates from multiple locations across New Zealand, with headquarters in Tauranga. They specialise in wealth management for retirement, creating adaptable portfolios that shift with client needs. Their services include market insights and custom advice, drawing on a network of experts. Clients gain access to broad investment options, blending local and global assets. 

Strengths encompass comprehensive strategies and experienced teams, but some mention requiring more client involvement in monitoring. Weaknesses could include less focus on emerging trends like digital currencies. Overall, they fit investors seeking flexible planning in volatile markets. The firm helps with retirement readiness through detailed analysis and ongoing reviews, ensuring plans stay relevant.

  • Key features: Portfolio adaptation, market analysis, comprehensive wealth strategies.

  • Facts and information: Many users see improved retirement readiness through their flexible planning methods.

5. Bradley Nuttall

Bradley Nuttall, located in Christchurch and Nelson, New Zealand, focuses on investment advice and retirement planning. They help clients build clarity and confidence for the future, offering services like wealth management and KiwiSaver tweaks. Their team provides comprehensive solutions for those gaining wealth or planning ahead. 

Clients value the personalised advice that covers performance boosts and family security. However, some prefer more online interactions over in-person meetings. Positives include specialised knowledge in long-term strategies, while it might not appeal to those seeking cutting-edge tech. Bradley Nuttall suits analytical thinkers wanting thoughtful guidance through life changes.

  • Key features: Wealth management solutions, KiwiSaver optimisation, future security planning.

  • Facts and information: Some clients gain from their consistent advice, fostering long-term financial health.

6. Lifetime

Lifetime, based in Tauranga, New Zealand, designs investment plans that evolve with life stages, key for retirement prep. They cover KiwiSaver and broader financial strategies, aiding goals like home buys or secure futures. Their advisers create tailored plans that adapt over time. A strength is the focus on personal evolution, though some feel the fund range could broaden. It appeals to those needing ongoing adjustments, but might overwhelm beginners. Lifetime helps build confidence in financial decisions, blending savings with investment growth.

  • Key features: Tailored investment strategies, life-stage adaptations, goal-oriented planning.

  • Facts and information: Many find value in their evolving plans, supporting varied retirement visions.

7. Fisher Funds

Fisher Funds, headquartered in Auckland, New Zealand, manages investments for retirement with a specialist touch. They support KiwiSaver and managed funds, helping grow savings through proven methods. The firm emphasises performance and client base strength. Strengths include track records in returns, but some consider the active management style riskier in downturns. It fits those seeking established firms, though less customised for unique situations. Fisher Funds aids in building substantial retirement funds via specialist oversight.

  • Key features: Managed fund options, KiwiSaver support, investment growth focus.

  • Facts and information: Some Kiwis build substantial retirement funds via their specialist management.

8. Milford Asset Management

Milford Asset Management, based in Auckland, New Zealand, aids retirement planning with a range of funds and resources. They emphasise comfortable futures through diversified investments and ethical choices. The firm offers active management for growth. Positives involve performance histories, while weaknesses might include volatility from active strategies. Suited for those valuing sustainability, Milford helps align investments with personal values for long-term security.

  • Key features: Diversified fund selections, ethical investing, retirement resources.

  • Facts and information: Many benefit from their focus on long-term, responsible growth.

9. NZ Funds

NZ Funds, located in Auckland, New Zealand, provides wealth management and portfolio solutions for New Zealanders. They offer advice on investments and retirement, using multi-asset approaches for growth. The firm focuses on diversified tactics led by experts. Strengths lie in broad strategies, but some note the reliance on adviser input. It works well for those wanting guided plans toward retirement goals.

  • Key features: Multi-asset investing, portfolio management, financial advice.

  • Facts and information: Some clients secure retirement through their growth-oriented methods.

10. Booster Investment Management

Booster Investment Management, headquartered in Wellington, New Zealand, targets retirement investing with geared and responsible options. They help maximise savings via strategic funds, appealing to aggressive planners. A plus is innovation in growth, though gearing adds volatility for cautious types. Booster suits those seeking enhanced potential in retirement funds.

  • Key features: Geared growth options, responsible funds, savings maximisation.

  • Facts and information: Many see enhanced retirement potential from their strategic approaches.

11. Forsyth Barr

Forsyth Barr, headquartered in Dunedin, New Zealand, serves as a trusted independent financial adviser, fully owned by its staff. They offer comprehensive wealth management and retirement planning, helping clients with investment strategies and portfolio construction. The firm provides access to research and market insights for informed decisions. 

Clients appreciate the unbiased advice and long-standing expertise. However, some find the branch-based model less convenient for remote access. Strengths include strong research capabilities and client-focused service, while a potential weakness is limited digital integration. Forsyth Barr fits those seeking reliable, evidence-based planning for secure retirements, blending local knowledge with global opportunities.

  • Key features: Investment research, portfolio construction, wealth management.

  • Facts and information: Many clients achieve stable growth through their independent strategies.

12. Rede Advisers Ltd

Rede Advisers Ltd, situated in Christchurch, New Zealand, has delivered financial planning since 2003. They specialise in retirement advice, KiwiSaver, and investment portfolios, helping clients navigate complex financial landscapes. The firm emphasises personalised plans that align with life goals. Clients value the experienced team and clear communication. On the downside, some note a traditional approach that could incorporate more modern tools. Positives feature holistic support for pensions and savings, making it suitable for those planning long-term security.

  • Key features: Personalised financial plans, KiwiSaver guidance, investment advice.

  • Facts and information: Some retirees benefit from their tailored, experienced approaches.

13. Lighthouse Financial

Lighthouse Financial, based in Auckland CBD, New Zealand, offers holistic financial planning for retirement. They cover goal setting, KiwiSaver, investments, and pension transfers like Australian Super and UK QROPS. The firm helps with comprehensive strategies for future security. Strengths include broad service range and client education, but some might find the urban focus limiting for regional clients. It appeals to those with international pensions needing consolidation.

  • Key features: Holistic planning, pension transfers, investment guidance.

  • Facts and information: Many gain from their all-encompassing retirement support.

14. Wealth & Co

Wealth & Co, operating in New Zealand, provides fee-only financial advice without product biases. They focus on investment strategy, portfolio construction, and retirement planning. The team, led by experienced advisers, offers bespoke plans for long-term adequacy. Clients trust the independent model for unbiased recommendations. However, as a smaller firm, some seek more extensive resources. Strengths lie in personalised, ethical advice, suiting those valuing transparency.

  • Key features: Fee-only advice, portfolio building, retirement strategies.

  • Facts and information: Some clients secure futures through their unbiased planning.

15. DecisionMakers

DecisionMakers, based in New Zealand, specialises in retirement planning and tailored investment portfolios. With combined expertise, they create unique plans for financial freedom. The firm offers independent advice without commissions, building generational relationships. Clients appreciate the personalised service and trust in recommendations. A weakness could be the emphasis on in-depth consultations, which might take time. It fits those wanting dedicated, owner-involved guidance.

  • Key features: Custom investment strategies, independent advice, long-term planning.

  • Facts and information: Many achieve peace of mind with their expert-led approaches.

16. Moneyworks NZ Ltd

Moneyworks NZ Ltd, located in Auckland, New Zealand, provides financial planning and ethical investment advice. They work with professionals on retirement strategies, blending thoughtful guidance with responsible investing. The firm has received recognition for transparency. Clients benefit from clear, grounded plans for life after work. Some note the focus on analytical clients might not suit everyone. Strengths include award-winning ethical focus.

  • Key features: Ethical investments, retirement planning, ongoing advice.

  • Facts and information: Some build ethical wealth through their recognised methods.

17. G3 Freedom

G3 Freedom, based in Tauranga, New Zealand, offers independent holistic financial advice for retirement. They provide investment planning, pension transfers, and strategies for wealth growth. The firm tailors services for life changes like inheritance. Clients value the jargon-free approach and ongoing support. However, some prefer larger firms for broader networks. It suits those seeking personalised futures.

  • Key features: Holistic advice, pension expertise, wealth protection.

  • Facts and information: Many prepare confidently with their tailored services.

18. EnableMe

EnableMe, founded in Auckland, New Zealand, specialises in financial coaching for retirement and investments. They help with budgeting, KiwiSaver, and long-term planning. The firm focuses on empowering clients through education and strategies. Strengths include motivational coaching, but some find it more general than specialised. It appeals to those starting or refining retirement paths.

  • Key features: Financial coaching, goal setting, investment planning.

  • Facts and information: Some gain independence via their empowering guidance.

19. Savvy Wealth

Savvy Wealth, located in Wellington, New Zealand, targets over-50s with retirement and investment planning. They offer evidence-based investing with moral values. The independent firm centres on client interests. Clients appreciate the focus on later life stages. A potential drawback is the niche market, limiting broader appeals. It fits mature planners seeking ethical growth.

  • Key features: Retirement specialisation, evidence-based strategies, value-driven advice.

  • Facts and information: Many in later years benefit from their focused planning.

20. Goodlife Financial Advice

Goodlife Financial Advice, based in Auckland, New Zealand, helps with investment and retirement since 1997. They cover KiwiSaver, managed funds, pension transfers, and property. The team develops innovative services for financial independence. Strengths include experience in transfers without fees, but some note the property lean. It suits those aiming for thriving retirements.

  • Key features: Innovative products, pension transfers, retirement independence.

  • Facts and information: Some achieve strong outcomes through their long-standing expertise.

How Retirement Planning Differs in New Zealand

New Zealand's system relies on KiwiSaver and personal savings, unlike some countries with heavier state support. Advisers here stress voluntary contributions to boost funds. In 2026, trends show rising interest in global growth with Bitcoin tilts for diversification. Many benefit from risk assessment quizzes to match plans with comfort levels. This setup encourages active involvement, leading to tailored outcomes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Retirement Investing

Jumping into high-risk options without checks can derail plans. Many overlook fees eating into gains over years. Advisers recommend reviewing KiwiSaver setups regularly. Ignoring inflation's bite on savings is another pitfall. Smart moves involve balancing assets and seeking unbiased views. In New Zealand, some forget government perks like employer matches. Compound portfolios help counter these issues with structured growth.

Benefits of Early Retirement Advice

Starting soon gives time for compound effects to work. Advisers spot gaps in current strategies, like underused Compound Pro tools. Many find early tweaks lead to bigger funds at retirement. It also builds habits for steady saving. In 2026, with market shifts, proactive plans pay off.

FAQ

What makes a good investment adviser for retirement planning?

Good investment advisers build trust through open talks about your life stage and aspirations, ensuring every recommendation supports long-term stability. They stay updated on market changes and regulatory shifts in New Zealand, applying this knowledge to refine your approach over time. Independence allows them to select from broad options, focusing on what truly benefits you without external pressures.

How does KiwiSaver fit into retirement strategies?

KiwiSaver serves as a flexible vehicle that grows through consistent contributions, offering tax perks that enhance overall savings efficiency. It adapts to different phases, from accumulation in working years to preservation closer to withdrawal age, with options for ethical or growth-focused funds. Integrating it with other assets creates a layered defense against economic fluctuations, providing a reliable base for future income needs.

Why consider overseas pension transfers in retirement planning?

Bringing overseas pensions into New Zealand through UK pension transfer or Australian super transfers streamlines administration under familiar local tax and investment frameworks. This move can unlock better growth opportunities by aligning funds with New Zealand's market dynamics and currency stability. It also reduces complexity in tracking multiple accounts, allowing for a unified view of your total retirement resources.

What role does risk assessment play in choosing retirement investments?

Risk assessment identifies how much volatility you can handle, shaping selections toward assets that match your temperament and timeline. It encourages periodic adjustments as personal circumstances evolve, such as shifting toward safer holdings with age. This process fosters confidence by balancing potential rewards with protection, ensuring your investments support a steady path forward.

How does compounding contribute to successful retirement planning?

Compounding accelerates wealth building by reinvesting earnings, creating a snowball effect that amplifies modest starts into substantial sums over decades. In retirement contexts, it rewards early and regular inputs, especially within vehicles like compound portfolios that harness this principle. Patience with this method often leads to greater financial freedom, as small habits yield outsized results when given time to mature.

Read Also:

Discover the Best Investment Advisers for Retirement Planning in 2026 - Compound Wealth



Paul Souliac
Previous

Best Investment Options for Retirement Planning in 2026
Next

Best Inheritance Investment Advice in 2026