New Year’s resolutions are often filled with good intentions - eat healthier, exercise more, learn a new skill. But let’s be honest, many of these focus on the here and now, and rarely last beyond a few months. At Aurora we’re committed to helping you take control of your financial future by making KiwiSaver simple, accessible and rewarding, while focusing on investments that create positive change for the climate and environment.
This year, choose a resolution that benefits both your future self and a healthier planet - one that’s simple to keep and can help grow your wealth over time. Make 2025 the year you take control of your KiwiSaver account and invest in your future with us by your side.
Whether you’re saving for your first home or aiming for the freedom of choice in retirement, KiwiSaver can be key to achieving your financial goals. By taking a few small steps now, you can set yourself up for a brighter, more secure future.
Here are four easy ways to kick-start your KiwiSaver goals in 2025:
1. Boost your contributions
Small changes today can mean big rewards later. If you’re contributing the minimum 3%, think about whether you could increase this to 4%, 6%, or even 8% or 10%. You might be surprised by how much a small increase can grow your balance over time. For first home buyers, increasing your contribution rate to 10% is an especially smart move. Each extra dollar invested works harder, benefiting from compounding returns and helping you reach your KiwiSaver goals more quickly.
Next steps: Take a moment to review your current contribution rate. Unsure how much you’re contributing? Check your payslip, contact your payroll administrator or log into your myIR account at Inland Revenue. If you received a pay rise recently, now could be the perfect time to increase your KiwiSaver contributions. Changing your rate is easy - you can do it through your payroll administrator, fill out a KS2 form and give it to your employer, or change your rate through your myIR account. It’s a smart move for your future.
2. Check your fund fit
Is your money in the right place? Not all KiwiSaver funds and investment options are the same, and what worked for you last year might not be the best fit now. Your investment choice should match your KiwiSaver goals, risk tolerance, and how far away you are from needing your money. A quick review now could potentially add hundreds of thousands of dollars to your future nest egg.
Next steps: We offer a range of investment options designed to match your goals, with the expertise to help you find the best fit for your situation. Take 10 minutes to explore the Aurora KiwiSaver fund and investment options. If you’re unsure, you can get in touch with us and one of our KiwiSaver specialists can help you understand your options.
3. Start now, stay consistent
The earlier you start, the more you gain. KiwiSaver is one of those things where time really matters. The sooner you start contributing to your account, or increase your contributions, the more time your money has to grow. Compounding returns are like a snowball rolling downhill, the longer it rolls, the bigger it gets! Also, if you're eligible, you'll get your employer and annual government contributions that add to the snowball. Don’t miss out on this free money towards your financial future.
Next steps: If you’re not already contributing through your employer, simply contact your payroll administrator to get set up. If you’re self-employed, or prefer to manage contributions yourself, setting up an automatic payment to your KiwiSaver account is easy through online banking and can fit with your budget. Contact our helpful team to get started. Even small amounts can add up – a little over $20 a week or $1,042.86 over 12 months, qualifies you for the full $521.43 government contribution if paid by 30 June each year.
4. Take advantage of expert advice
This might just be the most important step of all. KiwiSaver can be a powerful tool, but navigating its complexities, like choosing the right fund or maximising your benefits can be daunting. Getting expert advice can make all the difference, giving you the clarity and confidence to make the best decisions for your situation.
Next steps. Expert advice is part of our service, and you can chat with one of our KiwiSaver specialists anytime - whether you’re already an Aurora KiwiSaver member or not. There’s no obligation, just practical, tailored guidance to help you make the most of your KiwiSaver account.
Our purpose is simple: to empower more Kiwis to maximise their KiwiSaver investments and achieve their financial goals, all while driving positive change for a more sustainable future. By taking a few simple steps today, you can make 2025 the year you take control of your financial future and kick goals with your KiwiSaver investment.
DISCLAIMER
This information is provided in a general nature only and should not be construed as or relied on as financial advice. This is not a recommendation to invest in a particular financial product or class of financial products. You should seek financial advice specific to your circumstances from a Financial Adviser before making any investment decisions. FundRock NZ Limited is the issuer and manager of the Aurora KiwiSaver Scheme.
Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The value of your investment may go up and down.