What Are Your Best KiwiSaver Investment Options?
There are 5 main KiwiSaver options when it comes to risk and KiwiSaver investment strategy to choose from.
Here is the list of the 5 different KiwiSaver options and their risk type:
KiwiSaver Options | Risk Profile |
Conservative | Lower |
Moderate | Moderate |
Balanced | Moderate |
Growth | Higher |
High Growth | Higher |
Finding the best Kiwi Saver options for you depends on multiple factors such as your risk appetite, investment longevity, and goals. It can be overwhelming to pick amongst the countless KiwiSaver options available. Not only do you have to choose your provider, but also the right fund(s). Then, you have the KiwiSaver contribution options to consider. What percentage of your salary do you want to invest? Will you invest the minimum 3% of your salary or more?
Choosing among KiwiSaver options can be a simple process once you know exactly what you want from your investment.
You can change between KiwiSaver options anytime as your needs and goals evolve. National Capital is here to help you keep track of the best KiwiSaver investment regarding performance. We’re also here to answer any questions from the basics to more specific when it comes to your KiwiSaver options.
As no one can predict the future, being a smart investor consists of analysing existing and previous data for guidance. We understand that your full-time job isn’t to keep track of all the KiwiSaver investment options out there. However, ours is to be an advice and information hub. With the goal of empowering all Kiwis to become financially secure, free advice on KiwiSaver options is key. We use a combination of highly experienced financial advisors and technology to aggregate and track results of KiwiSaver investment options.
The right Kiwi Saver options will make a big difference to your payout.
Spending 10 minutes to complete our HealthCheck form may be the most important thing you can do for your KiwiSaver invetment right now.
KiwiSaver Investment Options - A Detailed Breakdown
Are you interested in joining a specific provider? Before you do, here's a detailed breakdown of their offering and how the compare against other Kiwi Saver options.
AMA
Always Ethical (AE) KiwiSaver Scheme
Formerly known as Amanah KiwiSaver Plan, the AE KiwiSaver Plan rebranded recently to Always-Ethical Limited. This rebranding aimed to make the Strict Ethical Mandate, developed over centuries by Islamic scholars, accessible to all New Zealanders seeking ethical investment options. Always-Ethical Limited remains the only KiwiSaver provider that does not invest in pork products and strictly enforces the prohibition of Riba (interest-based earnings).
AMP
AMP KiwiSaver Scheme Details
AMP is a well-established financial services company in New Zealand, offering a variety of investment and insurance products. With a significant presence in the KiwiSaver market, AMP provides members with tools like the MyAMP app and online portal for easy account management. The company’s investment philosophy emphasises sustainable investing, aiming to deliver healthy fund performance while contributing positively to the environment and society.
ANZ
ANZ KiwiSaver Scheme
ANZ, or the Australia and New Zealand Banking Group, is a prominent banking institution in New Zealand, offering a comprehensive range of financial services, including the ANZ KiwiSaver Scheme. With a significant presence in the KiwiSaver market, ANZ provides various investment options to help New Zealanders achieve their retirement goals.
AON
Aon KiwiSaver Scheme
Aon KiwiSaver was a scheme offered by Aon New Zealand, providing members with a range of investment options managed by external investment managers. Following its acquisition, Fisher Funds now oversees these KiwiSaver accounts, integrating them into their broader suite of retirement and investment solutions.
ASB
ASB KiwiSaver Scheme
ASB Bank, established in 1847 as the Auckland Savings Bank, is one of New Zealand’s leading financial institutions. The ASB KiwiSaver Scheme offers a variety of funds designed to help New Zealanders achieve their retirement and savings goals.
BNZ
BNZ KiwiSaver Scheme
The BNZ KiwiSaver Scheme is managed by BNZ Investment Services Limited (BNZISL), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Harbour Asset Management Limited. BNZISL is responsible for the investment strategy and governance of the scheme’s funds. The scheme is part of the broader Bank of New Zealand (BNZ) group, which is ultimately owned by National Australia Bank (NAB).
BOO
Booster KiwiSaver Scheme
Booster is a New Zealand-based financial services company committed to enhancing the financial resilience of New Zealanders. Beyond KiwiSaver, they offer a suite of services, including investment funds, superannuation products, and insurance solutions. Booster’s mission centers on providing accessible financial products and fostering financial literacy among Kiwis.
CHR
Christian KiwiSaver Scheme
The Christian KiwiSaver Scheme is specifically designed for individuals within New Zealand’s Christian community, encompassing all denominations. It provides an opportunity for members to invest their KiwiSaver funds in a manner consistent with Christian ethics and values.
CRA
Craigs KiwiSaver Scheme
Craigs Investment Partners, a leading New Zealand investment advisory firm, manages the Craigs KiwiSaver Scheme. With a nationwide presence and a commitment to personalized wealth management, Craigs offers a range of investment services, including the KiwiSaver scheme, to help clients achieve their financial objectives.
FF
Fisher Funds KiwiSaver Scheme
Established in 1998, Fisher Funds has grown to become one of New Zealand’s largest specialist investment managers. Their mission is to make investing understandable and accessible, helping Kiwis achieve their financial aspirations. With a team of over 20 investment professionals, Fisher Funds combines local expertise with global insights to manage their investment portfolios.
FFTWO
Fisher Funds Two KiwiSaver Scheme
Fisher Funds TWO KiwiSaver Scheme was established to provide New Zealanders with a structured approach to retirement savings. Managed by Fisher Funds, one of New Zealand’s largest specialist investment managers, the scheme benefits from the firm’s extensive experience and expertise in fund management.
GEN
Generate KiwiSaver Scheme
Generate is New Zealand-owned and operated KiwiSaver provider, passionate about helping members save for a comfortable retirement. They have attracted over 160,000 members, reflecting their commitment to delivering quality service and investment options tailored to individual retirement goals.
Kōura
Kōura Wealth KiwiSaver Scheme
Kōura Wealth is a New Zealand-based KiwiSaver provider committed to simplifying the investment process and empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their retirement savings. Utilizing innovative digital tools and offering a variety of investment options, Kōura focuses on delivering tailored KiwiSaver solutions that cater to the diverse needs of New Zealanders.
MAS
Medical Assurance Society(MAS) KiwiSaver Scheme
The MAS KiwiSaver Scheme is managed by Medical Funds Management Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Medical Assurance Society (MAS). MAS is a New Zealand-owned mutual organization that has been serving its members for over 100 years. As a mutual, MAS is owned by its members, meaning profits are reinvested to benefit members and support initiatives like the MAS Foundation, which focuses on health and wellbeing equity in Aotearoa.
MER
Mercer KiwiSaver Scheme
Mercer is a subsidiary of Marsh & McLennan Companies, a global professional services firm specializing in risk, strategy, and human capital. With a presence in over 40 countries, Mercer leverages its extensive expertise to offer retirement, superannuation, and KiwiSaver solutions to individuals and institutions in New Zealand.
MIL
Milford KiwiSaver Plan
Milford is a New Zealand-based investment firm known for its active management style and commitment to delivering strong investment returns. They offer a range of investment products, including the Milford KiwiSaver Plan, which is designed to help New Zealanders achieve their retirement goals.
PAT
Pathfinder KiwiSaver Scheme
Pathfinder Asset Management Limited is a New Zealand-based investment firm specializing in ethical investing. With a history dating back to 2010 in ethical fund management, Pathfinder launched its KiwiSaver Plan in 2019 to provide investors with a values-aligned retirement savings option. The firm is a Certified B Corporation, reflecting its commitment to high standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency.
JNO
Pie KiwiSaver Scheme (Juno)
The Pie KiwiSaver Scheme is managed by Pie Funds Management Limited, a boutique investment manager based in New Zealand. Established in 2007, Pie Funds launched the JUNO KiwiSaver Scheme in 2018, which was rebranded to Pie KiwiSaver Scheme on 5 December 2023. The firm is known for its active investment approach and has a global presence with teams in New Zealand, Australia, and the UK.
QS
Quaystreet KiwiSaver Scheme
QuayStreet Asset Management is a specialist funds management firm based in New Zealand. The QuayStreet KiwiSaver Scheme is managed and issued by Smartshares Limited, a subsidiary of NZX Limited. With a focus on active management and a commitment to delivering value to investors, QuayStreet combines local expertise with a global perspective to navigate the complexities of financial markets.
SBS
SBS KiwiSaver Scheme
SBS Wealth Limited is a New Zealand-based financial services provider, operating under the umbrella of SBS Bank, which is owned by its members. This structure ensures that the organization remains focused on serving the local community. The SBS Wealth KiwiSaver Scheme is designed to help New Zealanders achieve their retirement goals by offering a variety of investment options and personalized financial advice. The scheme’s management emphasizes transparency, client-focused service, and a commitment to responsible investing.
SIM
Simplicity KiwiSaver Scheme
Simplicity NZ Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver Scheme and the Simplicity Investment Funds. Founded by former Tower Investments CEO Sam Stubbs, Simplicity operates as a nonprofit organization, reinvesting profits to benefit members. The organization is based in Auckland, New Zealand, and is committed to providing low-cost, ethical investment options to its members.
SUM
Summer KiwiSaver Scheme
The Summer KiwiSaver Scheme is managed by Forsyth Barr Investment Management Limited, a licensed manager of registered schemes and part of the Forsyth Barr group of companies. Forsyth Barr is a New Zealand-owned investment firm with a history dating back to 1936. The scheme is structured as a trust, with Trustees Executors Limited acting as the Supervisor and custodian, ensuring that members’ investments are held separately from Forsyth Barr for their benefit.
SUP
Superlife KiwiSaver Scheme
SuperLife is managed by Smartshares Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of NZX Limited. They have been assisting New Zealanders with their investments for over 15 years and are one of six government-appointed default KiwiSaver providers. SuperLife’s offerings include KiwiSaver, superannuation, insurance, and investment products, catering to a wide range of financial needs.
WES
Westpac KiwiSaver Scheme
The Westpac KiwiSaver Scheme is managed by BT Funds Management (NZ) Limited, the investment arm of Westpac in New Zealand. Westpac New Zealand Limited acts as a distributor of the scheme. With a strong presence in the New Zealand financial sector, Westpac offers a comprehensive suite of banking and investment services, aiming to support Kiwis in achieving their financial goals.
KiwiSaver Options - Frequently Asked Questions
What makes some KiwiSaver options a good investment over others?
Kiwi Saver options that offer solid and consistent returns over a long period of time are typically what you want to look for. You’ve landed on the perfect website that periodically tracks and adjust the best performers in each KiwiSaver investment category. You can assess your KiwiSaver options yourself or you can get in touch with us for a guided walkthrough. We take into consideration your personal circumstances to narrow down the best Kiwi Saver options tailored for you.
Fees, also play a role in the difference between your KiwiSaver investment options. If the difference in the performance of two competing funds is only slight and the fees differ significantly, your best option is the cheaper one. However, this also depends on a case-by-case basis as the fee structure is often determined by total savings.
A track record is also an important factor in choosing between Kiwi Saver options. We generally recommend funds with a long proven track record over another with higher returns but under 5 years old. This is because investing is a long-term game. Anyone can get lucky in the short term. What differentiates the best from the rest is consistently high returns over a period of more than 5 years.
Naturally, your financial goals also come into play when choosing the fund that is right for you. No matter how high the returns are in growth funds, the volatile nature of them isn’t good for some. It isn’t only a matter of risk tolerance. If you are withdrawing from your savings often, it can lead to major losses if withdrawn at the wrong times.
Your KiwiSaver investment options are plentiful. If you need guidance on choosing the right one for you, National Capital is here to help.
Is KiwiSaver investment in general a good investment option?
According to Stats NZ, the household savings ratio as a percentage of net disposable income has been historically low. Before the Covid-19 pandemic began, it was averaging under 1% of disposable income. That changed since the Covid-19 pandemic broke out largely due to the insecurity people were facing in uncertain times.
For one reason or another, it is safe to say that Kiwis struggle with saving. This is exactly why KiwiSaver investment options are a great way to save and secure long-term financial freedom. Granted, investing in Kiwi Saver options isn’t the only way to guarantee a financially comfortable retirement, and it shouldn’t be. Your investment portfolio should be diversified and KiwiSaver options are a great tool to have on your belt.
A great reason why KiwiSaver investment options are well regarded is due to the ease of the entire process. Once you are enrolled and have selected amongst the available Kiwi Saver options, you don’t need to do anything else. The percentage of your salary is taken automatically from your payslip and invested into your account. Thus, for a nation that finds saving difficult to do, this is a hassle-free investment opportunity. Moreso, the minimum 3% of your salary invested is greater than the average household savings rate of 1%.
If one of your financial goals is to retire comfortably, you should be carefully considering your Kiwi Saver options. Naturally, that depends on what your account balance is when you are retiring. Thus, the earlier you analyse your KiwiSaver options, the more accurately you can focus on your retirement goals. We’re able to project your account balance when you retire by entering your contribution rate and annual returns. Get in touch with us to see if you’re where you want to be for retirement.
Are KiwiSaver options a safe investment choice?
Your KiwiSaver investment is held in a trust and managed by professionals. The funds are used by your chosen provider to be invested in various assets, including shares, property, and cash. Even if their business goes under, they can’t use your savings to resolve their financial troubles.
On the other hand, the value of your investment will go up and down depending on how the markets perform. However, KiwiSaver options are expected to grow with time.
Your money is also diversified across a range of different investments, which helps to reduce risk. Different KiwiSaver investment options lead to a diversified portfolio to hedge against any single investment going down in value.
Your money is saved until you retire or purchase your first home and you can’t access it earlier. This can be seen as a good thing because it stops you from spending your savings spontaneously. But it can also be seen as bad because you can’t access the funds any time you want.
Kiwi Saver options are managed by professional fund managers. They invest your money in various assets trying to grow your savings. It can provide peace of mind for some savers, knowing that experts are looking after their money.
While there is no guarantee that you will profit from it, the vast majority of people are doing well.
So, it is justified to say that your KiwiSaver investment is in safe hands.
How does the performance of KiwiSaver options compare to other investment options, such as individual stocks or traditional savings accounts?
Some of the best Kiwi Saver options tend to deliver annual returns of around 8% in the long term. However, it’s a big world out there and you have many choices available in addition to KiwiSaver investment options.
One of these alternatives to KiwiSaver investment options is trading individual stocks. Trading single stocks can indeed provide much higher returns than a diversified portfolio like the various Kiwi Saver options offer. However, investing in single stocks is much riskier and volatile. Furthermore, it takes a good understanding of the financial markets, timing, and analysis of the companies you invest in.
Another alternative to KiwiSaver options is a traditional savings account. A savings account will pay interest on the savings you have accumulated over time. This option typically offers lower returns than KiwiSaver investment, however, it provides high liquidity as you can withdraw money instantly. Savings accounts may also not always keep up with inflation, which can erode the purchasing power of your saved amount.
Other investment options do not come with the government incentives that KiwiSaver options come with. Those incentives being a yearly government contribution and regular employer contributions. With other investments, you are normally solely relying on performance alone.
In summary, the choice between KiwiSaver investment options and other alternatives depends on goals, risk tolerance, and investment knowledge. The best KiwiSaver options offer a really good annual return as well as a hands-off approach to investing. On the other hand, savings accounts offer stability and liquidity while individual stocks can offer higher returns at higher risk. That is not to say that you should only invest in Kiwi Saver options. Depending on your financial goals and circumstances, a balanced approach could mean investing in all three of the aforementioned options.
Where does the money invested into KiwiSaver options go?
This is a perfectly reasonable question if you’re unfamiliar with KiwiSaver investment strategy or the financial market world. Simply put, your savings are invested into various assets with the expectation of a return on the KiwiSaver investment. The main metric differentiating the best KiwiSaver options from the rest is the return on investment. These aforementioned assets that make up your KiwiSaver investment options may include cash, bonds, fixed interest, property, and shares.
Cash, bonds, and fixed interest are classified as income assets which make up a part of your Kiwi Saver options. These are generally more stable assets that carry lower risk and likely generate lower returns in the long run. The more conservative KiwiSaver options invest a larger proportion of money into these assets for those seeking a lower-risk investment.
On the other hand, property and shares are growth assets that are also part of your Kiwi Saver options. Growth assets are likely to exhibit short-term volatility and are generally considered higher-risk KiwiSaver investment options. However, these assets focus on capital growth and income and the best are the ones with maximising returns.
Nonetheless, it is important to note that maximising returns isn’t the only factor people are concerned about. Some funds structure their investment strategy based on ethical, religious, and environmental beliefs. Hence, for some people, those may be the best KiwiSaver options for them.
All of this information is publicly available for all Kiwis clarification about where their money is being invested. While researching 30+ investment companies will take you a fair bit of time, we’ve got an easy alternative for you. We’ve already done the research and continue to do so consistently to ensure you’re getting up-to-date information. You can simply submit a HealthCheck form to find the best KiwiSaver investment options for you.
What is the difference between the categories of Kiwi Saver options?
As already mentioned, there are multiple KiwiSaver investment options to choose from. You have KiwiSaver options ranging from Conservative to Aggressive and Balanced in between. As the names suggest, different investment types have different risk and reward strategies that they implement. Choosing between Kiwi Saver options is largely dependent on your risk tolerance. However, you must also consider your circumstances and financial goals, both long and short term.
KiwiSaver options generally come with a Risk Profile rating that you should look for before making a decision. The lower the risk rating, the lower the potential returns, and vice versa. Lower risk Kiwi Saver options also offer more stable investments that don’t fluctuate as frequently and rapidly as their higher risk counterparts. Low-risk assets typically include investments in fixed interest securities and moderate exposure to equities. On the other hand, high-risk KiwiSaver options primarily invest in international equities with potentially high returns but also high volatility.
The official IRD website mentions that there is a range of Kiwi Saver options to suit your needs. It also touches on the fact that different KiwiSaver investment options are available with different amounts of potential risk and return. However, it stops short of offering financial advice on which solution is the right one for you.
That is where National Capital comes in. We offer free tailored advice to make the choice between KiwiSaver options one that you’re confident about. Although your risk appetite may be high, your life circumstances may be suited to a more pragmatic investment. Take our free assessment test and get custom recommendations on the best KiwiSaver investment options available to you.