Even in challenging times, the start of a new year brings new goals, energies, and outlooks. Some people pledge to exercise more or eat healthier food, and many think about their finances – how to pay their debt off faster, get on the property ladder, or save more.

If you’re a KiwiSaver member, what better time to take stock and consider where to from here? Read on for some good ‘KiwiSaver resolutions’ to keep top-of-mind through the new year.

Check that you’re in the right fund

Are you in the most appropriate KiwiSaver fund for your risk profile and investment horizon?

KiwiSaver funds have different levels of risk associated with them. Generally speaking, the higher the risk is, the more returns you’re likely to earn in the long term – but you need to be prepared to withstand higher volatility. On the other hand, lower-risk funds are generally more stable, but returns are also likely to be lower over the long term.

Here’s the bottom line: Depending on your goals, age and attitude to risk, some KiwiSaver fund types may be better suited to your needs than others. The key thing is to make an active choice of fund, and review it from time to time.

Importantly, if you’ve never chosen a KiwiSaver fund, you’re most likely invested in a default, low-risk fund, which may not match your risk profile. This means that you might be missing out on potentially higher returns. Please don’t hesitate to contact our SHARE advisers to find out what your profile is and choose a fund accordingly.

Keep a long-term perspective

Over the past few years, KiwiSaver has been helping more and more New Zealanders get on the property ladder. But even if you’re planning to withdraw your KiwiSaver savings to buy your first home, remember: KiwiSaver is a long-term investment, so it’s important to ensure that your moves don’t put your retirement goals at risk. 

Keeping a long-term perspective can also help you stay focused during volatile times. When markets drop, it can be tempting to switch to a more conservative fund, but this usually means you lock in the loss and then miss out on the rebound.

Provided you’re in the right fund for your needs, staying put is often the best thing an investor can do. Talk with a SHARE adviser – we can help you ignore the noise and make an informed decision about your investments.

Maximise your Government contribution

This is another important tip. Did you know that every year you may be eligible to receive a Government contribution of up to $521.43, straight into your KiwiSaver account?

That’s right. Each year, for every dollar you put in your account between 1 July and 30 June, the Government adds an extra 50 cents to your savings, up to a maximum of $521.43. So, to be eligible for the maximum amount, you need to contribute at least $1,042.86 between July and the following June.

If you’re employed, earn at least $35,000 annually and contribute at least 3 per cent of your salary or wages, you should reach that amount automatically. But if you don’t, you can still top up your contributions by the cut-off date or look at increasing your contribution rate through the year. Don’t miss out – it’s a great opportunity to boost your savings.

Track your progress

KiwiSaver statements now include retirement income projections, so that members can check what they’re on track to receive at age 65 – either as a lump sum or as a weekly amount until age 90. 

Your projection is based on your current balance as well as assumptions and projected returns. While it’s no crystal ball, it can give you a clearer understanding of where you’re at, and how far you’ve got to achieve your desired retirement lifestyle.

Time to take action? Contact a SHARE financial adviser. We can help you review your KiwiSaver settings, including your contribution rate, to get on track with your goals.

Diversify

Have you ever heard the expression, “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket”?

KiwiSaver is just one of the vehicles you can use to save for retirement. Depending on your circumstances, it may be a good idea to use the scheme in combination with other options.

At SHARE, we look at your ‘Big (financial) Picture’ and can talk you through other available opportunities. For example, you may consider investing in property or managed funds. Diversifying your investment portfolio can be an effective way to minimise risk and manage the volatility of your assets – get in touch if you’d like to discuss this further.

Here to help with quality financial advice

Your investment horizon is constantly changing as each year brings you closer to retirement, and to other financial goals you may have.

If you’d like to fast-track your dream retirement, our SHARE advisers are here to listen to your needs and help you move forward – with quality financial advice. Disclaimer: Please note that the content provided in this article is intended as an overview and as general information only. While care is taken to ensure accuracy and reliability, the information provided is subject to continuous change and may not reflect current development or address your situation. Before making any decisions based on the information provided in this article, please use your discretion and seek independent guidance.