Better retirements start with clarity
Practical explainers, templates, and frameworks for Kiwi households planning the next chapter. Everything we publish is jargon-light and research-backed.
The content on this blog is for educational purposes only. fidser is not a licensed Financial Advice Provider — please consult a qualified Financial Advice Provider (FAP) before making financial decisions.
Browse by topic
Choose a theme to narrow the playbook.
Latest Articles
13 articles found
Retirement Income Adequacy in 2026: The Numbers Behind the Headlines
You've probably seen the headlines: 'Most retirees live on NZ Super alone.' But what does that actually tell us about retirement adequacy in New Zealand? We dig into the research to separate what's typical from what's sufficient, and what it means for your retirement planning.
fidser.
Term Deposits and Interest Rates in 2026: Where to Park Cash
If you're holding cash for retirement, you're probably watching interest rates closely. But here's what many retirees miss: the rate you lock in today won't be the rate you see next year, and past returns tell you very little about what's ahead. Let's explore the real landscape for term deposits and cash savings in 2026.
fidser.
Building a Second Income Stream to Sit Alongside NZ Super
If you're relying solely on NZ Super for retirement, you're not alone - but you might be wondering how to make ends meet. Let's explore practical ways to create a second income stream that can sit comfortably alongside your government payment.
fidser.
Annuities in New Zealand: Do They Have a Place in Your Plan?
You've spent decades building your retirement savings. Now you're wondering: is there a way to guarantee that money will last? Annuities promise just that, but in New Zealand, the options are limited and the trade-offs significant. Here's what you need to know.
fidser.
NZ Super Payment Rates in 2026: After-Tax Reality Check
The official NZ Super rates look straightforward until you factor in tax codes, living situations, and whether you're single or partnered. Here's what you'll actually receive in your bank account in 2026, and why your neighbour might get a different amount despite the same gross payment.
fidser.
The Bucket Strategy for Retirement Income in New Zealand
You've spent decades building your retirement savings. Now comes the harder part: making that money last 30+ years without running out. The bucket strategy offers a practical framework that helps New Zealand retirees sleep better at night, even when markets get bumpy.
fidser.
Safe Withdrawal Rates for New Zealand Retirees
The famous 4% rule promises 30 years of retirement income from your savings. But it was designed for Americans without NZ Super. Does it still apply when you're getting $27,000+ a year from the government? Let's find out what actually works for New Zealand retirees.
fidser.
Understanding ACC and How It Affects Your Retirement Planning
Most working New Zealanders pay ACC levies every week without thinking twice. But what happens to your accident compensation coverage when you retire? Understanding how ACC changes at 65 can help you plan better for healthcare costs and income protection in your golden years.
fidser.
How Property Investment Affects Your Retirement Timeline in NZ
Could owning a rental property let you retire three to five years earlier? For many New Zealanders, property investment isn't just about building wealth, it's about creating retirement income streams that work alongside KiwiSaver and NZ Super to give you more choices about when and how you retire.
fidser.
Tax-Efficient Withdrawal Strategies for NZ Retirees
You've spent decades building your retirement nest egg. Now comes the tricky part: withdrawing it in a way that keeps more money in your pocket and less in the IRD's. The order you tap your savings can save you thousands in tax over your retirement.
fidser.
Understanding NZ Tax Brackets: A Retirement Planning Guide
Here's something that surprises many New Zealanders: the day you retire, you might instantly get a pay rise from the IRD. Not because tax rates changed, but because your income dropped you into a lower tax bracket. Understanding how this works is crucial for planning a comfortable retirement.
fidser.
NZ Super and Working: How Employment Affects Your Entitlement
Here's the best news you'll hear today: you can work full-time, earn a six-figure salary, and still receive your full NZ Super. Unlike many overseas pensions, NZ Super has no income test. But before you celebrate, there's a crucial catch you need to understand about tax.
fidser.
NZ Super at 65: What You Actually Get and How to Plan
NZ Super is the foundation of retirement for most New Zealanders, but many people approaching 65 don't know exactly how much they'll receive or how their living situation affects their payments. Understanding what you'll actually get is the first step to building a retirement plan that works.
fidser.