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KiwiSaver Advice

Make the most of your retirement savings

KiwiSaver Advice

In brief

KiwiSaver advice should reflect your goals, timeframe, contribution settings and tolerance for investment risk. A suitably qualified adviser can explain fund options and first-home withdrawal rules, then make recommendations within their authorised scope. KiwiSaver returns are not guaranteed, and changing funds should be based on more than recent performance.

Mortgage Lab provides KiwiSaver advice for New Zealanders planning retirement or using KiwiSaver toward a first-home deposit.

KiwiSaver is one of the most valuable financial tools available to New Zealanders, but many people don't give it much thought. The fund you're in, the contribution rate you choose, and how you use it for a first home can make a huge difference to your future.

Our advisers can review your current KiwiSaver, compare it to other options, and help you understand if you're in the right fund for your age and goals. We can also guide you through using KiwiSaver for a first home purchase.

We provide advice on KiwiSaver funds from Generate, NZ Funds, Booster, ANZ OneAnswer, Koura, and Milford – so we can offer options across different providers.

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Information sources

Information checked 28 July 2026. Lending and eligibility criteria can change.

How We Can Help

Review your current KiwiSaver fund and fees

Compare fund performance and risk levels across providers

Help you choose the right fund type for your age and goals

Guide you through KiwiSaver first home withdrawal

Explain employer and government contributions

Set up or increase your KiwiSaver contributions

Frequently Asked Questions

The right fund depends on your age, risk tolerance, and when you'll need the money. Generally, younger people can afford more risk (growth funds), while those closer to retirement should be more conservative. We can review your situation and recommend an appropriate fund type.
You may be eligible after you have been a KiwiSaver member for at least three years. You must leave $1,000 in the account, and the property is generally intended to be your principal place of residence. Confirm eligibility and the withdrawable amount with your KiwiSaver provider before relying on the funds.
The First Home Loan is a government-backed scheme that allows eligible first home buyers to purchase with a deposit as low as 5%. You need to meet income caps and purchase price limits. We can check if you qualify and guide you through the application process.
Employees can currently choose 3.5%, 4%, 6%, 8% or 10% of pay, with 3.5% the default rate from 1 April 2026. Employer and government contributions have eligibility and tax rules, so check current Inland Revenue guidance and consider affordability, time horizon and other financial priorities before changing your rate.
Yes, you can switch providers at any time with no exit fees. The process is simple – your new provider handles the transfer. We can help you compare providers and make the switch if it's right for you.

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“Karen had just finished helping my parents get a mortgage/into a property and they referred me to her for my own home: I found Karen very easy to work with, she was very informative and patient throughout the whole process. She stayed in touch regularly and made sure I had everything organised that needed to be. Will recommend Karen and mortgage lab to anyone I know in a similar position.”

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Ready to Get Started?

Talk to one of our friendly mortgage advisers today. Our service is usually at no direct cost to you.

09 886 9779Contact Us Online