There is an overwhelming number of KiwiSaver providers and KiwiSaver funds to choose from. Furthermore, we know reading about all the different KiwiSaver funds and how they differ is one of those chores you’re inclined to put off as it’s not the most exciting weekend task.

To make life a little easier, we've put together some detailed information on the best KiwiSaver funds based on each category’s annual returns. The data is based on National Capital research from the quarterly fund reports. It helps paint a clearer picture on your KiwiSaver investment options based on the top-performing KiwiSaver funds.

Thus, allowing you to compare your own KiwiSaver provider against the top performers and market index for all KiwiSaver funds. You can compare by accessing your fund performance via your provider's KiwiSaver login portal. Alternatively, we're able to summarise this for you when you apply for your own Free KiwiSaver HealthCheck. Weighing up your KiwiSaver investment options has never been more accessible. 

Jump to

• Conservative fund
• Moderate fund
• Balanced fund
  
• Growth fund
  
• Aggressive fund
  
• How to choose?

About Milford Conservative Fund

Milford's Conservative Fund is aimed towards investors looking for medium returns and greater capital protection with a minimum investment period of 3 years. Amongst KiwiSaver Options, the investment has a lower risk that's diversified primarily with fixed interest securities and a reasonable allocation to equity. 

Fund's Annual Returns vs Market Index

The chart below shows the annual returns of Milford's Conservative Fund compared to the Market Index. The average annual return of Milford's Conservative Fund is 6.64%, whereas the average annual return on the market index is 6.58%. Making it a current top performer amongst other Conservative Kiwi Saver options.

Milford Conservative vs Market index

Asset Allocation Detailed Breakdown

Taking a look at the asset allocation gives you an idea of what the fund invests in as well as the proportions. It is a good indicator for investors as asset allocation impacts the volatility, risk, and return of KiwiSaver funds.

As of September 2021, the actual asset allocation of Milford Conservative Fund was as follows: 




Fees Compared to Industry Average

Amongst all KiwiSaver options, is the Milford Conservative Fund right for you?

If you're in a conservative KiwiSaver fund, you prioritise stability and lower volatility over high returns. You are potentially aiming to withdraw from your KiwiSaver savings in the next couple of years for either your first home or retirement. In this case, you wouldn't want to witness a sudden drop in your KiwiSaver balance when you are finally ready to use your funds.

Suppose you feel unsure about whether or not you should be in a conservative fund. We keep track of the latest KiwiSaver funds performance results so you don't have to. Analysing the performance of all KiwiSaver investment options. By submitting a KiwiSaver HealthCheck, you’ll get personalised KiwiSaver recommendations, so you don't have to make the decision alone. 

About Aon Russell LifePoints Moderate Fund

Aon Russell LifePoints Moderate Fund has a goal of generating returns that are greater than inflation. The fund has a target investment mix of 60% in income assets and 40% in growth assets (Source: Aon) and is currently investing in a greater proportion of growth assets (41.16%) to income assets (58.84%). This fund suits investors who are looking to hold their investment for a period of no less than five years.

Fund's Annual Returns vs Market Index

The chart below shows the annual returns of Aon Russell LifePoints Moderate Fund compared to the Market Index. The latest annual return of Aon Russell LifePoints Moderate Fund is 7.13%, whereas the latest annual return on the market index is 8.73%.

Aon Russell LifePoints vs Market Index

Asset Allocation Detailed Breakdown

As of September 2021, the actual asset allocation of Aon Russell LifePoints Moderate Fund was as follows:

Fees Compared to Industry Average

Is the Aon Russell LifePoints Moderate Fund right for you?

Fees are only one of the many factors to be considered when looking into KiwiSaver funds; therefore, don’t be deterred by Aon Russell LifePoints higher than average fees. If you’re in a moderate fund, you most likely value the stability of your investment rather than the level of returns but are willing to accept slightly more volatility than a conservative fund. You may be a few years away from withdrawing from your KiwiSaver.

If you're unsure about whether you are making the most out of your KiwiSaver, take our KiwiSaver HealthCheck. See what your KiwiSaver options are to help you feel more confident in your investment.

About Milford Balanced Fund 

Milford's Balanced fund seeks to deliver capital growth for investors over an investment period of 5 or more years. The fund primarily invests in equity with a decent proportion of the allocation in fixed interest securities. It is considered a low-to-medium risk fund considering its asset allocation and diversification.

Fund's Annual Returns vs Market Index

The chart below shows the annual returns of Milford Balanced Fund compared to the collective KiwiSaver options Market Index. The average annual return of Milford Balanced Fund is 16.02%, whereas the average annual return on the market index is 14.72%.

Milford Balanced Fund vs Market Index

Asset Allocation Detailed Breakdown

As of September 2021, the actual asset allocation of Milford Balanced Fund was as follows:

Fees Compared to Industry

Is the Milford Balanced fund right for you?

When considering your Kiwi Saver options and investing in a Balanced fund, it is important to ensure that the assets in the fund will give you the stability and returns you want out of your KiwiSaver investments. As everyone has different goals, being in a KiwiSaver fund that aligns with your individual goals could end up saving you thousands.

Is your KiwiSaver account currently being maximised? That is why we offer a Free KiwiSaver HealthCheck to bring to light your best KiwiSaver investment options.

About Milford Active Growth Fund 

The Milford Active Growth Fund strives for an annual net return of 10% for their investors over a recommended investment period of no less than five years. It is classified as a medium-to-high risk fund that diversifies by investing largely in equity and a reasonable amount of asset allocation in fixed interest securities.

Fund's Annual Returns vs Market Index

The chart below shows the annual returns of Milford Active Growth Fund compared to the Market Index. The average annual return of Milford Active Growth Fund is 13.58%, whereas the average annual return on the market index is 12.20%.

Milford Active Growth vs Market Index

Asset Allocation Detailed Breakdown

As of September 2021, the actual asset allocation of Milford Active Growth Fund was as follows:

Fees Compared to Industry

Is the Milford Active Growth fund right for you?

If you’re in a KiwiSaver growth fund, you’re most likely ok with seeing volatility in the value of your KiwiSaver account and aren’t planning on withdrawing from it anytime soon. You're generally more interested in returns but also know that it's important not to get caught up in headline figures. Because past performance does not necessarily predict future performance, researching what your fund is actually invested in and how the fund provider chooses each asset is equally important.

National Capital is constantly reviewing and researching each of these aspects to help you choose a fund that suits you best. As well as this, National Capital wants to make sure you are informed on what you should do if your circumstances or the circumstances of your provider change. That is why we keep up to date with the latest information on KiwiSaver investment options.

About Fisher TWO Equity Fund

The Fisher TWO Equity Fund has delivered a strong investment performance since its inception in 2007. They aim to deliver a higher growth investment return over the long term through high investment in growth assets.

Fund's Annual Returns vs Market Index

The chart below shows the annual returns of Fisher TWO Equity Fund compared to the Market Index. The average annual return of Fisher TWO Equity Fund is 12.23%, whereas the average annual return on the market index is 14.19%.  

Fisher TWO Equity vs Market Index

Asset Allocation Detailed Breakdown

As of September 2021, the actual asset allocation of Fisher TWO Equity Fund was as follows:

Fees Compared to Industry

Is the Fisher TWO Equity fund right for you?

As an aggressive KiwiSaver investor, not unlike a growth investor, you probably have a high tolerance and capacity for volatility. Length of time is an important factor when considering KiwiSaver investment options. You are able to withstand fluctuations in your KiwiSaver fund due to the fact you are investing for a longer period of time. 

As with any fund, but importantly aggressive funds, the proportion of growth to income assets, where your money is invested, and who is actually managing it all greatly impact the performance of your investment in the long run. If you are feeling unsure about your Kiwi Saver options and as to which KiwiSaver fund you should be in you should consider completing a KiwiSaver Healthcheck.

We have looked at the best performing KiwiSaver funds based on their 5-year returns, however, looking at the past performance of a fund is just one aspect when choosing the best KiwiSaver fund. Other questions you should be asking when considering your KiwiSaver options include:

• How and where is my money invested? 
  
  
• What is the level of volatility (risk) of this fund? Does it align with my volatility tolerance and capacity?
  
  
• How do the fees compare to other funds with a similar rate of return?
  
  
• What is the provider's process when selecting investments and making changes in the funds?

There are a lot of Kiwi Saver options out there and transferring KiwiSaver funds is simple. Our research team at National Capital compares KiwiSaver funds and looks at over 100+ funds to recommend the best KiwiSaver provider for you. 

Why Use National Capital?

• Detailed Research: We research various factors of the best KiwiSaver funds – from asset allocation all the way to ethical investing.
  
  
• Answers: How do I know my money is safe? What risks are being taken?
  
  
• Monitoring: We’re constantly monitoring the KiwiSaver landscape and Kiwi Saver options.
  
  
• Expertise: Our team specialise in Investment and KiwiSaver research.
  
  
• No cost to you: We get paid by the KiwiSaver providers
  
  
• Gift of Time: We do the hard work, so you can focus on life.

Our KiwiSaver recommendations look at the big picture and not just the scorecard. We sift through Kiwi Saver options and recommend the best performers that match your lifestyle. So, what are you waiting for?