Financial & legal issues

A free online tool called ‘ Powerswitch ’ (provided by ConsumerNZ) allows people to compare electricity and gas prices offered by providers throughout New Zealand. This service was previously known as ‘What’s My Number.’ Finding out how much you can save takes less than two minutes and involves answering some...

If you are over 65, you may be able to get help with paying health-related costs. Most GPs belong to a Primary Health Organisation (PHO). These are bulk funded to look after the health of the people who are enrolled with their service. Most New Zealanders are enrolled. You generally...

Everyone’s circumstances are different and there is no one size fits all rule when it comes to financing a retirement. Some may want to spend every dollar they have while others will want to keep some left in the kitty for an inheritance or bequest. Of course, people will have...

The financial world is evolving and as we age, we will come across situations we may not be ready for, such as how we access our money, where it’s held and how we can use it such as, the changes to banks and banking processes, cryptocurrency etc.. Some will remain...

There is no right or wrong way to spend your money as you get older – after all, you’re the one who earned it. For some, older age is an opportunity to cash in their chips and do everything they’ve ever wanted, using all the money they’ve saved in the...

Aside from NZ Super (which any eligible person over 65 can receive), other financial support may be available to those who qualify. The following is a selection only. Contact Work and Income for information about support relevant to your specific need. Check the Work and Income website to see what...

The concept of home equity release involves converting a portion of your home’s value into cash, while still allowing you to live there. When you sell the home or die, the full loan plus interest has to be repaid. Currently, the to main providers are Heartland and SBS banks. As...

NZ Super is the common name for New Zealand Superannuation. It is a taxable pension paid to those who meet the criteria. It is paid fortnightly on a Tuesday. To be eligible, you must be aged 65 or over and meet length of residency and other require­ments. Other overseas living...

The following link gives you an overview of government assistance that might be available. Budget advisory services will also be able to advise you. Extra help.