Are you prepared for retirement?

Good news first. The FSC’s 2026 Financial Resilience Index shows 52% of New Zealanders now feel financially prepared for retirement. That's up from 44% last year, and the highest result since the Index started tracking in 2020.

Flip that number over, though, and nearly half of us (48%) still don't feel ready. So there's progress worth celebrating, and a bit of work still to do.

The retirement readiness gap

Feeling prepared and being prepared aren't always the same thing. Of the 52% who feel ready for retirement, most say they're reasonably prepared. Only 13% feel very prepared.

And the target itself depends on you. According to Massey University's Financial Education and Research Centre, what you'll need depends heavily on where you live and the lifestyle you want. The gap between a no-frills retirement and a more comfortable one, with travel and dining out included, is significant. We break down the numbers in "How much do you need to retire comfortably?"

Closing that gap starts with a few good questions.

4 questions to ask to strengthen your retirement plan

1. Am I contributing enough to reach my retirement goals?

Small changes add up over time. If you're employed, you can choose a contribution rate above the 3.5% minimum. If you're self-employed, between jobs or not working, you can make voluntary contributions to your KiwiSaver account whenever it suits. Our Retirement Calculator can show how different amounts could affect your KiwiSaver savings by the time you retire.

2. Is my KiwiSaver fund still the right fit for me?

Your fund should suit your goal and how long you have until you need your money. Younger investors might benefit from growth or aggressive funds, while those closer to retirement may prefer a more balanced or conservative approach. Your Adviser can help you check if your plan still fits your goals.

Some options adjust for you. The Aurora RetirementPlus Strategy, available through the Hive KiwiSaver Scheme, gradually reduces risk as you get closer to, and move through, retirement. No manual adjustments needed.

3. Am I maximising the government contribution?

If you’re eligible and contribute at least $1,042.86 between 1 July and 30 June, the government adds 25 cents for every dollar, up to $260.72 a year.

4. Do I have a clear retirement plan, or could a chat with an Adviser help?

Research from Financial Advice New Zealand found that 62% of people who’ve received financial advice understand how much they’ll need in retirement, compared with 40% of New Zealanders overall.  Many people hesitate to seek advice, but professional guidance can provide clarity and confidence. Talk with your Adviser or have a chat with the Hive Client Care Team to arrange a review.

Here to help you get there

Retirement should be a time to enjoy life, not worry about money. With the right support, tools and planning, you can take charge of your financial future today.

Ready to check in on your retirement plan? Try our Retirement Calculator, talk to your Adviser, or contact the Hive Client Care Team.

^{Sources: Financial Services Council, Financial Resilience Index 2026 (survey of 2,000 New Zealanders aged 18+, March–April 2026). Financial Advice New Zealand, Better Behaviours: research on the value of financial advice (2022).}