Best Retirement Financial Advice in New Zealand (2026)

Written By Paul Souliac

Planning for retirement in New Zealand means finding solid financial advice that fits your life. Whether you aim for a relaxed lifestyle or active years ahead, good guidance helps build a strong foundation. Retirement financial advice covers KiwiSaver options, investment choices, and ways to protect your savings. Discover the best retirement financial advice in New Zealand for 2026.

With changes in the economy, many people seek personalised strategies to make their money last. This guide shares key tips and compares top services to help you decide. Get tailored retirement financial advice from Compound Wealth to secure your future.

Discover the Best Retirement Financial Advice in New Zealand - Compound Wealth

Why Personalised Advice Matters

Everyone's path to retirement looks different. Some focus on growing savings through KiwiSaver, while others handle pension transfers or build diverse portfolios. Personalised retirement financial advice looks at your full picture, including income sources and risks. It helps avoid common pitfalls like underestimating costs or ignoring inflation. In New Zealand, financial advisers often stress balancing growth with safety. This approach keeps your funds working hard without too much worry. Strong advice builds confidence for the long haul.

Common Retirement Challenges in New Zealand

Retirees face hurdles like market shifts and health needs. Many deal with superannuation rules or overseas pensions. Advisers help navigate these by suggesting smart moves, such as adjusting fund types or adding protections. KiwiSaver remains a core tool, but pairing it with other investments adds strength. Understanding tax rules also plays a big role. Good planning turns these challenges into manageable steps, keeping your retirement smooth and enjoyable. 

Best Retirement Financial Advice in New Zealand (2026)

1. Compound Wealth - Best Retirement Financial Advice

Compound Wealth, based in Mount Maunganui, New Zealand, stands out with its bespoke approach to retirement financial advice. They draw on years of expertise in KiwiSaver and investments to craft plans that grow and shield your wealth. Clients get open-architecture solutions for broad diversification and specialist tactics. This means access to global markets and tailored strategies that match your goals. 

Their team focuses on clarity and support, making complex ideas simple. Whether building a retirement fund or managing larger balances, they prioritise your unique needs. Positive reviews highlight their transparent process and real results. This service shines for those wanting personalised guidance without generic limits. It appeals to Kiwis nationwide seeking better outcomes through proven methods.

  • Key standout features include flexible KiwiSaver options and international research-backed plans.

  • Their advice covers many client funds with a track record in investment strategies.

  • Benefits like nationwide service and ethical focus help users achieve secure retirements.

About Compound Wealth

Compound Wealth is a leading financial advisory firm based in Mount Maunganui, New Zealand. Founded in 2017 by Adam Stewart, 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. Rede Advisers Ltd

Rede Advisers Ltd, situated in Christchurch, New Zealand, has delivered financial planning since 2003. Their team guides clients toward retirement with a clear six-step method that starts with understanding goals and ends with ongoing support. This includes assessing current finances, identifying risks, and creating custom strategies. Strengths show in their qualified advisers who hold high standards, ensuring reliable advice for long-term needs. 

They suit individuals wanting structured paths to secure futures, especially in investments and savings growth. Weaknesses could involve a more formal process that takes time for those seeking fast answers. Still, their focus on client education builds trust. Many appreciate the regular reviews that adjust plans as life changes. This firm stands out for its commitment to ethical practices and detailed reporting. Overall, they provide a solid foundation for retirement, blending expertise with personal attention to help navigate economic shifts.

  • Six-step planning process, investment guidance, risk evaluation tools, and periodic plan adjustments.

  • Emphasises lifestyle objectives and consistent updates to maintain financial health over time.

3. Lifetime Retirement Income

Lifetime Retirement Income, based in Wellington, New Zealand, targets those over 60 by converting savings into reliable income streams. Their annuity-style products deliver fortnightly payments, supplementing NZ Super for steady cash flow. This helps retirees manage expenses without worry. Strengths include simple, low-cost setups that prioritise predictability and ease. They work well for people transitioning from work, offering options to lock in rates. 

Weaknesses might appear in reduced flexibility once set, limiting quick alterations. Yet, their transparent terms make decisions straightforward. Clients often value the tax efficiency and focus on longevity. Founded to address retirement gaps, they draw on market knowledge to sustain payments. This service appeals to conservative planners seeking peace of mind. It integrates with broader finances, ensuring income lasts through later years.

  • Regular fortnightly payouts, tax-managed structures, and conversion of lump sums into income.

  • Tailored for enduring income that syncs with superannuation schedules.

4. DecisionMakers

DecisionMakers, located in Devonport-Takapuna, New Zealand, offers retirement strategies as part of comprehensive financial planning. They help set goals, allocate assets, and prepare for post-work life. This includes reviewing savings and suggesting diversified approaches. Strengths lie in their holistic perspective, combining personal needs with market trends for resilient plans. 

They fit well for families or individuals with varied assets. Weaknesses may include a broader scope that dilutes focus on ultra-specific retirement tools. However, their experienced team provides insightful guidance. Clients benefit from ongoing monitoring and adjustments. Established to empower decisions, they emphasise education and transparency. This makes complex topics accessible, building client confidence. Overall, they support sustainable retirement through balanced, informed strategies.

  • Goal-based strategies, asset diversification, and personalised financial advice.

  • Prioritises client-unique requirements for successful retirement setups.

5. Rutherford Rede

Rutherford Rede, in Waitematā, New Zealand, specialises in retirement planning for individuals, families, and trusts. As a private firm, they manage wealth with a focus on long-term security. This covers estate planning and efficient portfolios. Strengths encompass their wide advisory range and dedication to ethics, ideal for complex situations. 

They handle trusts effectively, protecting assets for future generations. Weaknesses could be the depth required for simpler needs, potentially overwhelming some. Still, their tailored service shines in customisation. Clients praise the thorough analysis and strategic insights. Operating independently, they avoid conflicts for unbiased advice. This firm excels in creating durable retirement frameworks that adapt to changes.

  • Wealth oversight, trust counselling, and extended planning horizons.

  • Private ownership enables concentrated client care.

6. AMP New Zealand

AMP New Zealand, headquartered in Waitematā, provides retirement advice via KiwiSaver and diverse investments. They assist in building savings with multiple fund choices, from balanced to aggressive. This large entity suits those preferring established support. Strengths include extensive reach and rich resources for learning. 

Their tools help track progress toward retirement. Weaknesses sometimes stem from scale, leading to less individualised touches in crowded systems. Yet, they offer robust options for various risk levels. Clients access educational materials to inform choices. With a history in finance, AMP integrates services for seamless retirement preparation. This makes it reliable for broad audiences seeking growth.

  • KiwiSaver selections, investment instruments, and advisory backing.

  • Combined solutions foster savings expansion and retirement earnings.

7. Lifetime

Lifetime, based in Christchurch, New Zealand, develops financial plans centered on retirement objectives. They incorporate insurance with investments for complete coverage. This addresses essentials while planning ahead. Strengths highlight customised plans and risk safeguards, perfect for holistic needs. 

They appeal to those wanting unified advice. Weaknesses might overlap for narrowly focused requests. However, their integrated method strengthens overall security. Clients enjoy goal tracking and adaptive strategies. Committed to client success, they provide clear paths to retirement. This firm stands out for blending protections with growth tactics.

  • Unified planning, insurance integrations, and objective monitoring.

  • Tackles necessities and contingencies for thorough protection.

8. Milestone Financial


Milestone Financial, headquartered in Wellington, New Zealand, provides tailored financial advice with a strong emphasis on retirement and KiwiSaver. Established in the Wellington region, they have expanded to offices in Canterbury and Auckland, offering independent guidance free from large network constraints. Their services help clients navigate life's financial stages, from building wealth to securing retirement. This includes selecting optimal KiwiSaver schemes, adjusting investments for goals, and integrating insurance for comprehensive protection. 

Strengths shine in fostering long-term relationships and delivering clear, jargon-free advice that empowers clients. They support during tough times like health issues or windfalls, ensuring plans adapt to changes. Weaknesses might include a regional presence that could limit access for remote clients outside main areas. Still, their personalised approach builds trust and results. Clients rave about peace of mind from effective retirement strategies. As an independent firm, they prioritise individual needs over generic solutions. This makes Milestone ideal for Kiwis seeking supportive, goal-oriented retirement planning.

  • KiwiSaver scheme selection, investment adjustments, insurance integration, and retirement guidance.

  • Focuses on long-term client bonds and adaptive plans for life's events.

9. Apex Advice Group

Apex Advice Group, located in Waitematā, New Zealand, delivers financial advice to secure retirement and sustain lifestyles. They link wellbeing to finances for broader impact. This suits starters or near-retirees. Strengths feature dependable guidance and wellbeing connections, promoting holistic health. 

They build stability through practical plans. Weaknesses may be generality for specialised demands. Yet, their approachable style fosters trust. Clients gain from lifestyle-aligned strategies. Focused on improvement, they guide toward confident futures. This firm excels in making advice relatable and effective.

  • Wellbeing-oriented counsel, security frameworks, and lifestyle aid.

  • Targets enduring stability and user assurance.

10. Finsol

Finsol, based in Upper Harbour, New Zealand, supplies KiwiSaver and financial services for retirement buildup. They aid in fund selections and tactic development. This prioritises core savings growth. Strengths include direct services and easy access, great for KiwiSaver enthusiasts. 

They simplify processes for better outcomes. Weaknesses might narrow their range for diverse needs. However, their focus delivers strong results in essentials. Clients benefit from strategic fund management. Committed to growth, they support effective planning. This makes Finsol a go-to for straightforward retirement enhancement.

  • KiwiSaver oversight, financial offerings, and planning utilities.

  • Centres on expansion via primary retirement means.

11. Lighthouse Financial

Lighthouse Financial, in Auckland CBD, New Zealand, offers holistic financial planning with a retirement focus. They cover KiwiSaver, investments, and long-term strategies to build secure futures. This includes reviewing current setups and suggesting improvements. Strengths lie in their central location and comprehensive services, making them convenient for urban clients. 

They provide clear roadmaps for retirement readiness. Weaknesses could involve urban-centric access for rural users. Still, their team delivers personalised insights. Clients value the blend of advice and tools for informed decisions. Operating with transparency, they help navigate market changes. This firm stands out for integrating multiple aspects into cohesive plans.

  • Holistic planning, KiwiSaver options, and investment strategies.

  • Supports goal achievement through structured financial guidance.

12. The Private Office

The Private Office, situated in Auckland CBD, New Zealand, specialises in long-term financial planning for retirement. They handle investment planning, KiwiSaver, and transfers from UK or Australian pensions. This caters to internationals and locals alike. Strengths include expertise in cross-border issues and detailed personalisation. 

They craft strategies that align with individual lifestyles. Weaknesses might be the premium feel for budget-conscious seekers. Yet, their thorough assessments ensure robust outcomes. Clients appreciate the seamless handling of complex transfers. Founded for high-quality service, they emphasise client education. This service excels in creating diversified, tax-aware retirement portfolios.

  • Pension transfers, investment management, and KiwiSaver advice.

  • Focuses on international elements for comprehensive retirement security.

13. Strategic Wealth Management

Strategic Wealth Management, based in Auckland CBD, New Zealand, provides financial planning and investment management geared toward retirement. They include KiwiSaver and Australian Super options in their offerings. This helps build diversified savings. Strengths encompass strategic asset allocation and ongoing support. 

They suit those with mixed assets needing coordination. Weaknesses could include a corporate structure that feels less intimate. However, their professional team offers deep market knowledge. Clients benefit from regular updates and risk-balanced approaches. Committed to wealth growth, they integrate tools for better visibility. This firm aids in achieving retirement independence through informed tactics.

  • Asset allocation, KiwiSaver integration, and superannuation handling.

  • Emphasises coordinated strategies for sustained financial progress.

14. Become Wealth Ltd

Become Wealth Ltd, located in Takapuna, Auckland, New Zealand, focuses on wealth creation and retirement planning. They guide through KiwiSaver and investments to foster growth. This includes setting milestones and monitoring progress. Strengths highlight their proactive methods and client-centric plans. 

They appeal to ambitious savers. Weaknesses may involve a growth-oriented bias for conservative types. Still, their adaptable services provide value. Clients enjoy the emphasis on long-term gains. Established for empowerment, they use data-driven insights. This service shines in transforming savings into substantial retirement funds.

  • Wealth-building plans, KiwiSaver management, and investment guidance.

  • Prioritises milestone tracking for effective retirement accumulation.

15. NZ Funds

NZ Funds, headquartered in Auckland, New Zealand, is a specialist wealth management firm offering financial advice for retirement. They manage portfolios and provide KiwiSaver solutions tailored to New Zealanders. This includes active investment strategies for optimal returns. Strengths lie in their expertise and innovative approaches to wealth preservation. 

They fit high-net-worth individuals seeking advanced options. Weaknesses could be complexity for beginners. Yet, their experienced advisers simplify concepts. Clients value the focus on performance and risk control. With decades in the field, they adapt to economic trends. This firm excels in delivering customised retirement pathways.

  • Portfolio management, KiwiSaver plans, and active investment tactics.

  • Centres on expert solutions for New Zealand-specific retirement needs.

Tax Tips for New Zealand Retirees

Taxes impact retirement income in New Zealand. NZ Super stays tax-free, but other earnings like investments face rates based on total income. Financial advisers often recommend structures to minimise bites, such as PIE funds for lower effective taxes.This keeps more money in your pocket during retirement. Overseas pensions might need declarations. Planning ahead with tools like risk assessment helps gauge exposures. Some use trusts for asset protection. 

Investment Diversification Strategies

Diversifying spreads risk across assets like shares, bonds, and property. In New Zealand, many mix KiwiSaver with direct investments for balance. Global exposure guards against local dips. Advisers suggest reviewing portfolios yearly. Private wealth management tailors your mix to your tolerance. Property remains popular, but liquidity matters, while bonds add stability. This method builds resilience for retirement funds.

Health Care Planning in Retirement

Health costs rise in later years. New Zealand's public system covers basics, but private insurance fills gaps for faster care. Plan for premiums and out-of-pocket expenses. Some build dedicated savings pots for health care. Advisers consider this in overall finances. Staying active and resources from Health New Zealand offer guidance and reduce costs. This ensures retirement stays healthy without financial strain. 

FAQ

What makes KiwiSaver essential for retirement in New Zealand?

KiwiSaver serves as a key savings vehicle that aligns with long-term goals by offering various fund categories suited to individual preferences. Recent government adjustments set to begin in April 2026 will enhance contribution structures for both employees and employers, making it more robust for building retirement funds. Younger workers, including those aged 16 and 17, will gain access to employer inputs under these updates, broadening its appeal for early starters in financial planning.

How do pension transfers affect retirement planning?

Pension transfers from overseas schemes, such as UK pension transfer or Australian super transfers, allow consolidation into local options like KiwiSaver, simplifying management of retirement assets. Upcoming rules effective April 2026 introduce a scheme pays mechanism where providers can handle tax obligations directly, providing more flexibility for migrants. The timing of such transfers influences tax treatments based on residency duration, so aligning them with personal circumstances ensures efficient integration into overall strategies.

What role does risk assessment play in financial advice?

A risk assessment quiz evaluates personal attitudes toward investment fluctuations, helping tailor portfolios that balance potential returns with comfort levels. It considers broader life elements like employment stability and longevity concerns, ensuring comprehensive coverage in retirement setups. Regular reviews of this assessment keep plans adaptable to changing situations, supporting sustained financial health over time.

How can diversification improve retirement outcomes?

Diversification in Compound portfolios involves blending asset types such as shares, bonds, and private markets to mitigate local economic impacts. Incorporating global elements, including innovative areas like technology, adds resilience against market shifts common in New Zealand's landscape. This strategy fosters steady progress toward retirement objectives by spreading exposures across geographies and sectors.

Discover the Best Retirement Financial Advice in New Zealand - Compound Wealth

Paul Souliac
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