Helping Kiwis Build Lasting Financial Wealth since 1998
Trusted investment provider partners
Years helping New Zealanders grow wealth
Independent — we work for you
Our Specialisations
Investment Advice
Expert, independent investment advice crafted to grow your wealth, manage risk, and achieve your unique financial goals. From first-time investors to experienced portfolios — we build a plan around you.
- › Portfolio construction & diversification
- › Risk profiling & ongoing rebalancing
- › Access to leading fund managers
Retirement Advice
Expert, independent advice to help you build, protect, and draw down your retirement wealth. We create personalised strategies so you can retire with confidence and financial security.
- › Retirement income projections
- › Drawdown & decumulation strategies
- › Estate planning considerations
KiwiSaver Advice
Maximise your KiwiSaver with expert, independent advice on fund selection, contribution strategies, risk management, and retirement advice. We help ensure your savings are working towards the future you want.
- › Current KiwiSaver Assessment
- › Fund selection & provider comparisons
- › Retirement projections
- › Superannuation Schemes
General and Personal Insurance Advice
Expert, independent advice on comprehensive protection for you, your family, and your assets. Life, health, trauma, disability, and general cover — tailored to give you peace of mind at every stage of life.
- › General insurance — House, Car, Contents & Business Insurance
- › Life insurance
Our partners.
We work with New Zealand’s leading KiwiSaver and investment providers.
Start with a free, no-obligation conversation.
No pressure. No jargon. Just clear, independent advice from an experienced adviser who genuinely cares about getting it right.
Advice
Trusted advice, honestly delivered
Certus Financial Group is a licensed Financial Advice Provider within the Wealthpoint network and regulated by the Financial Markets Authority (FMA).
You can have confidence that we are held to the highest professional standards and are committed to providing advice that is always in your best interests.
Award-Winning
Financial Advice
We are proud recipients of multiple industry awards including AMP Adviser Business of the Year, and individual recognition for our advisers across Investment, Insurance and business support categories — reflecting our commitment to advice that genuinely delivers for clients.
About Us
Your First Choice for Financial Advice
At Certus, we are dedicated to helping New Zealanders build confidence in their financial future. We believe financial advice should be professional, transparent, and built on long-term relationships — giving you peace of mind at every stage of life.
Experience That Matters
Founded in 1998, Certus has over 25 years of experience helping New Zealanders navigate their financial journey with confidence.
Many of our advisers bring more than 20 years of industry experience, backed by the qualifications required to provide professional financial advice within their specialist areas.
Independent Advice
As independent advisers, we are not tied to any single provider or product. We have access to all fund managers in New Zealand, which means we can objectively assess the full market and recommend solutions that are genuinely in your best interest — not ours.
This independence is at the core of what we do. It allows us to cut through the noise, compare options across the market, and build strategies tailored specifically to your personal goals, risk profile, and circumstances.
When you work with Certus, you can be confident the advice you receive is unbiased, transparent, and always focused on what matters most — your financial future.
Commitment to Professional Standards
At Certus, maintaining high professional and ethical standards is central to everything we do.
Our advisers are subject to ongoing compliance and audit processes across all disciplines in which we operate, helping ensure the advice you receive is reliable, transparent, and appropriate to your needs.
The Wealthpoint Network
On 16 September 2019, Certus joined the Wealthpoint Network as a founding member. The network comprises more than 50 financial advisory businesses across New Zealand, all committed to delivering sound advice and real value for their clients.
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Certus Charity Support
As a company dedicated to protecting what matters most, we're proud to support four charities close to our hearts — Starship NZ, Breast Cancer Foundation NZ, Prostate Cancer Foundation of NZ, and Hospice NZ.
Award-Winning
Financial Advice
We are proud recipients of multiple industry awards including AMP Adviser Business of the Year, and individual recognition for our advisers across Investment, Insurance and business support categories — reflecting our commitment to advice that genuinely delivers for clients.
Personal & General Insurance
Cover for your income & assets
We compare across New Zealand's leading insurers and recommend exactly the right cover for your situation — not what's easiest to sell. Independent advice, at no cost to you.
Life Insurance
If you pass away, your family receives a tax-free lump sum — enough to repay the mortgage, replace your income, and give those left behind the financial breathing room to grieve without money pressure.
Trauma Insurance
A serious diagnosis doesn't just cost you medically — it costs you months of income and freedom to choose treatment. Trauma insurance pays a lump sum at diagnosis so you can focus on recovery.
Income Protection
Your ability to earn is worth more than your home, car, and savings combined. If illness or injury stops you working, income protection replaces up to 75% of your monthly income.
Total & Permanent Disability
If you're permanently unable to work again, TPD delivers a substantial lump sum to fund ongoing care, modify your home, repay debt, and provide long-term financial stability.
Mortgage Protection
Designed to dovetail with income protection, mortgage protection ensures your home loan repayments are specifically covered when you can't work.
Home & Contents
Cover for the structure of your home and everything inside it — from furniture and appliances to jewellery and electronics. We make sure you're never underinsured when a claim comes.
Vehicle Insurance
Comprehensive car, ute, and fleet cover. We compare across insurers to find the right balance of premium and protection — with a claims team you can actually talk to.
Landlord & Rental Property
Purpose-built cover for investment properties — loss of rent, malicious tenant damage, methamphetamine contamination, and more. Standard home policies won't cover these.
Boat, Leisure & Travel
Specialist cover for pleasure craft, marine equipment, and worldwide travel — medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage sorted before you set off.
Good time to review
your cover? Absolutely.
Getting Married
Your financial obligations and who depends on you changes significantly. Your cover should reflect that from day one.
Starting a Family
A new child means new dependants. Life insurance and income protection need revisiting before baby arrives.
Buying a Home
A mortgage means your family needs protection if you can't service it. New assets also need to be insured properly.
Income Change
A pay rise, new role, or redundancy all affect what cover you need. Income protection in particular should always mirror your current earnings.
Clear advice, no surprises.
Getting the right insurance shouldn't feel complicated. Our process is thorough but straightforward — you'll understand exactly what you're covered for and why before you commit to anything.
We start with a no-obligation discussion about your life, goals, and what you're trying to protect. No forms, no pressure — just a genuine conversation to understand what matters to you.
We model your financial exposure — income, debts, dependants, existing cover — and identify exactly what gaps exist and how much protection makes sense for your situation and budget.
We compare policy terms, exclusions, and pricing across New Zealand's leading insurers. We're not tied to anyone — we recommend what's genuinely best, not what pays us the most.
You receive a comprehensive, personalised Statement of Advice — our full recommendations, the reasoning behind each one, what is and isn't covered, and all associated costs. No small print surprises.
We check in annually and are available year-round. At claim time, we act as your advocate — ensuring you're treated fairly and your claim is settled as quickly as possible.
Start with a free, no-obligation conversation.
No pressure. No jargon. Just clear, independent advice from an experienced adviser who genuinely cares about getting it right.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about personal insurance. Cover is personal — talk to an adviser for a recommendation built around you.
It depends on your debts, your income, who relies on you financially, and what you'd want covered if the unexpected happened. Rather than a rule of thumb, we calculate a tailored figure — enough to protect your family without paying for cover you don't need.
Usually nothing directly. We receive commission from insurers based on premiums placed, and commission rates are disclosed in your Statement of Advice. You get professional advice, policy structuring, and claims support without a separate fee in most cases.
Absolutely — this is where having an adviser matters most. We advocate for you with the insurer, manage the paperwork, and work to get your claim paid promptly and fairly. You deal with us, not a call centre.
Yes, especially if your circumstances have changed since you took it out. We'll compare your existing cover against your current needs. Importantly, we never recommend cancelling a policy until suitable replacement cover is confirmed and in force.
Most policies are 'rate for age', meaning premiums rise as you get older. Some covers can be structured on level premiums that stay flat for a set term. We help you structure your cover so it remains affordable for as long as you need it.
KiwiSaver Advice
Maximise your KiwiSaver savings
Choosing the right fund and contribution strategy makes a significant difference to your end balance — and that's where we come in.
Investment Risk Profiling
We assess your true risk tolerance and investment timeline, so your KiwiSaver fund actually matches your age and goals — not just a default setting.
Fund Selection & Review
We help you choose the right KiwiSaver fund and provider, and keep it under ongoing review as your circumstances and the market change.
Contribution Strategy
We optimise your contribution rate to make the most of employer and government contributions — every dollar left on the table is money lost.
First Home Withdrawal
If buying your first home is on the horizon, we'll check your eligibility for a KiwiSaver withdrawal and the First Home Grant.
Workplace Superannuation
We help businesses set up and manage workplace superannuation schemes, supporting employees with their KiwiSaver decisions.
Balance Projections
We model your projected balance and show what difference a fund switch or contribution increase could make over your working life.
Get a free KiwiSaver review.
Not sure if you're in the right fund? Our advisers will review your current KiwiSaver — fund type, fees, and contribution rate — and show you what a few simple changes could mean for your retirement balance. No cost, no obligation.
Beyond KiwiSaver
We also advise on employer-sponsored superannuation and trans-Tasman retirement savings transfers — so all of your retirement savings can work together.
NZ Retirement Trust (NZRT)
An employer-sponsored retirement savings option
The New Zealand Retirement Trust (NZRT) is an employer-sponsored workplace savings scheme designed to help you save for a more comfortable retirement. The good news is, if your employer offers an NZRT employer plan, you may be eligible to join.
With the NZRT, a team of experienced investment professionals will manage your savings to help you maximise your precious retirement nest egg.
If you decide to leave your employer you’ll also have the option to transfer to the My Super section of the NZRT. This is your own personal plan within NZRT, so you can continue to save for your retirement.
You’ll find NZRT may be a suitable retirement savings option if you:
- › want a retirement savings scheme operated by an experienced investment team
- › want a flexible employer-sponsored option that you can still use if you leave your employer
Do you have a large balance or are you retiring soon?
We recommend you talk to one of our Investment Specialists to make sure you have the settings right on your portfolio. You’ll discover there are specialist products available tailored to assist you with additional income in retirement.
To find out more, talk to one of our Investment Specialists Brendon White on 027 271 7464 or Chloe Robertson on 027 523 1914.
Australian Superannuation Transfers
Bringing your Australian retirement savings home
If you’ve lived and worked in Australia, you may have super sitting in an Australian fund. Under the Trans-Tasman Retirement Savings Portability scheme, you can transfer that money into a participating KiwiSaver scheme once you’ve permanently emigrated to New Zealand — bringing your retirement savings together in one place, under one set of fees.
There are a few rules specific to Australian-sourced savings. The money keeps certain Australian conditions, can’t be put towards a first-home withdrawal, and can’t be transferred on to a third country if you move again. It can only come from an APRA-regulated complying fund, and not every KiwiSaver provider accepts Australian transfers — so it pays to get the details right before you start.
We can help you:
- › work out whether transferring is the right move for your situation
- › confirm your Australian fund is eligible and your KiwiSaver scheme accepts the transfer
- › manage the paperwork and the process from start to finish
Thinking about bringing your Australian super across?
Talk to one of our Investment Specialists Brendon White on 027 271 7464 or Chloe Robertson on 027 523 1914.
New Zealanders who receive professional financial advice hold, on average, over 50% more in their KiwiSaver accounts than those who don't.
Source: Financial Services Council, Money & You research (2020), which found advised New Zealanders held around 52% more in their KiwiSaver accounts. This reflects an association observed in the research — commonly linked to being in a fund suited to your timeframe, contributing consistently, and staying invested through market ups and downs — rather than a guaranteed outcome. Your own result will depend on your contributions, fund choice, timeframe and market performance.Our partners.
We work with New Zealand’s leading KiwiSaver providers.
What's included in your review
A thorough KiwiSaver review with one of our advisers covers every aspect of your membership — so you leave with complete clarity and confidence about your savings.
We review your existing fund type — conservative, balanced, growth, or aggressive — and assess whether it truly aligns with your age, timeline, and attitude to risk.
We compare your current provider against leading KiwiSaver managers — including fees, performance history, fund options, and member services — to ensure you're getting the best value.
We analyse your current contribution rate and map out strategies to maximise the government member tax credit and employer contributions — every dollar left on the table is money lost.
You'll leave with a clear, written set of recommendations tailored to your situation — no jargon, no pressure. Just honest, practical guidance from a registered financial adviser.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about KiwiSaver. For advice tailored to your fund, contributions, and goals, book a free chat with an adviser.
It depends on your time horizon, your goals (first home vs retirement), and how you feel about ups and downs along the way. Many Kiwis remain in a fund that doesn't match their situation — often the one they were defaulted into. We help you find the fund and provider that genuinely fits.
Yes — switching providers is straightforward and there's generally no direct cost to you. We handle the paperwork and the new provider arranges the transfer. The bigger question is whether the new fund is right for you, and that's where our advice comes in.
In most cases there's no direct cost to you. We may receive commission from KiwiSaver providers, and this is disclosed in your individual Statement of Advice — so you'll always know how we're paid before you act on our advice.
In most cases, yes — after you've been a KiwiSaver member for at least three years you may be able to withdraw most of your balance towards your first home, subject to eligibility criteria. We can walk you through the process and make sure your fund is set up sensibly in the lead-up.
At least once a year, and whenever something significant changes — a new job, a pay rise, buying a home, or getting closer to retirement. A quick review can make a meaningful difference to your end balance.
Investment Advice
Comprehensive investment services
From risk profiling to ongoing portfolio management, we cover every aspect of your investment journey.
Risk Profiling
We take time to understand your true risk tolerance, investment horizon, and emotional relationship with money — so your portfolio reflects who you actually are, not just a questionnaire.
Managed Fund Selection
With access to 15+ trusted providers, we identify and recommend the funds that best match your goals — evaluating performance, fees, manager quality, and underlying strategy.
Portfolio Diversification
We construct well-diversified portfolios across asset classes, geographies, and sectors — reducing concentration risk while targeting returns appropriate for your timeline.
Regular Reviews
Markets change. Life changes. We provide structured annual or semi-annual portfolio reviews to rebalance, update, and ensure your investments remain aligned with your evolving goals.
Tax-Efficient Structures
We consider the tax implications of every investment decision — from PIR rates and PIE funds to Portfolio Investment Entity structures — to maximise your after-tax returns.
Estate & Succession Planning
Your investment plan doesn't end at retirement. We integrate estate planning principles to ensure your wealth is preserved and transferred according to your wishes.
Start with a free, no-obligation conversation.
No pressure. No jargon. Just clear, independent advice from an experienced adviser who genuinely cares about getting it right.
Our partners.
We work with New Zealand’s leading fund managers and investment providers.
A measured, methodical approach
Good investment advice isn't reactive — it's structured. Our engagement process is designed to surface what matters most to you and translate it into a clear, actionable plan.
We start with a no-obligation conversation to understand your financial situation, goals, and concerns — and to determine whether we're the right fit for each other.
A structured data-gathering process covers your assets, income, liabilities, tax position, and risk tolerance — giving us a complete picture to work from.
We prepare a comprehensive, personalised Statement of Advice — clearly outlining our recommendations, the reasoning behind them, and all associated costs.
Once you're comfortable with the recommendations, we move efficiently to implement — coordinating platform setup, transfers, and fund selection on your behalf.
Regular structured reviews — typically annual or semi-annual — ensure your portfolio stays aligned with your goals as markets evolve and life circumstances change.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about investing with Certus. Can't find what you're looking for? Get in touch — the first conversation is free.
There's no fixed minimum — the right starting point depends on your goals and the providers we recommend. Many of our clients begin with regular contributions rather than a large lump sum. We'll design a strategy that fits your situation, whatever your starting point.
Your first conversation with us is free and carries no obligation. Before you commit to anything, any fees or commission we receive are fully disclosed in your Statement of Advice, so you'll always know exactly how we're remunerated.
We work with a panel of trusted, research-backed investment providers and match recommendations to your risk profile, time horizon, and goals — not to any incentive arrangement. Our recommendations are documented and explained so you understand the reasoning behind them.
We review your portfolio regularly as part of our ongoing service, and any time your circumstances change — a new job, an inheritance, a house purchase, or a shift in your goals. Markets move and life moves; your plan should keep pace with both.
Volatility is a normal part of investing, and your portfolio is built with it in mind — diversified across assets and aligned to your time horizon. When markets dip, we're here to provide perspective and help you avoid the costly mistake of panic selling.
Our Advisers
Our experienced advisers bring decades of combined expertise and a genuine commitment to helping you achieve financial security and get the very best out of life.
Brendon White
Brendon holds a Bachelor in Business majoring in Marketing Management, Graduate Diploma in Business (Personal Financial Planning), and NZQA National Certificate Level 5 in Financial Services.
Brendon has been married for 15 years and has 3 daughters. He enjoys being involved in his children's school as a member of the Board of Trustees, and loves football (soccer), running, and coaching kids sport in his local east Auckland community.
Chloe Robertson
Chloe gained her BCom from The University of Canterbury and also holds a Graduate Diploma in Business Studies majoring in financial planning. Her areas of expertise include Investments, KiwiSaver, Personal and General Insurance.
Chloe is married with one beautiful daughter, Edeline, and has a dog named Elvis. In her spare time she enjoys yoga and spending time with her family. She loves to cook and worked for 5 years on super yachts throughout the Mediterranean as a chef for the rich and famous.
Peter Hannaford
His area of expertise is general insurance for Domestic and Business Insurance needs, along with Life Insurance for existing AMP policy clients. What Peter loves most is being of service when clients' needs change — and having clients who have been with him for over 30 years, many of whom have become personal friends.
Peter is a qualified Senior Associate of the Australia & NZ Institute of Insurance & Finance (awarded Honorary Life Member). In his spare time he competes in a classic circuit race series in his authentic 1980s Group A Fiat race car. "It's far more competitive than you might think!" he says with a wry smile.
James Li
He loves helping people achieve their financial goals, protecting their precious possessions and achieving financial independence. James holds a Diploma of Business and National Certificate in Financial Services, and keeps up to date with current practicing certificates through regular training.
He is a family man who is keen on tennis, swimming, and bush walking.
Zakk Finlay
Zakk holds a Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in Marketing and International Business, from Victoria University of Wellington. He has also completed qualifications in Advanced Excel Skills for Business through Macquarie University, as well as the National Certificate in Financial Services (Level 5) specialising in Investment Advice.
Outside of work, Zakk enjoys spending time with friends and family, and rarely misses the chance to watch live sport of any kind.
Admin & Support
Behind every great adviser is a dedicated support team. Our admin and operations staff ensure a seamless, professional experience for every Certus client.
Pamela Solatan
Helen Ballantyne
Zakk Finlay
Book a Free Consultation
Request Your Consultation
Tell us a little about your situation and we'll be in touch within one business day.
Get in Touch
We'd Love to Hear From You
Looking for expert financial advice? Certus Financial Group offers advisory services covering Investment, KiwiSaver, Superannuation, and Personal & General Insurance. We can help you achieve your financial goals.
PO Box 26621, Epsom 1344
Complaints & Disputes
If you have a concern about any part of our service, please contact your Adviser directly or reach us at complaints@certusnz.co.nz. If unresolved, you may contact the Insurance and Financial Services Ombudsman (IFSO) at info@ifso.nz or 0800 888 202.
Send Us a Message
Our Team
Certus Financial Advisers
Our experienced team of Financial Advisers will provide you with the advice you need to gain financial security and get the very best out of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
The questions we get most often
If yours isn't answered here, ask us directly — a first conversation costs you nothing.
Questions by service
Choose a service line below to see the questions we are asked most often about it.
There's no fixed minimum — the right starting point depends on your goals and the providers we recommend. Many of our clients begin with regular contributions rather than a large lump sum. We'll design a strategy that fits your situation, whatever your starting point.
Your first conversation with us is free and carries no obligation. For ongoing investment advice we charge an annual fee based on the value of the assets we manage for you. The rate that applies to you is set out in your Statement of Advice and agreed before you act on our advice.
We work with a panel of trusted, research-backed investment providers and match recommendations to your risk profile, time horizon, and goals — not to any incentive arrangement. Our recommendations are documented and explained so you understand the reasoning behind them.
We review your portfolio regularly as part of our ongoing service, and any time your circumstances change — a new job, an inheritance, a house purchase, or a shift in your goals. Markets move and life moves; your plan should keep pace with both.
Volatility is a normal part of investing, and your portfolio is built with it in mind — diversified across assets and aligned to your time horizon. When markets dip, we're here to provide perspective and help you avoid the costly mistake of panic selling.
Our Investment Advice page covers our approach in full. Retirement planning is delivered through this service and our KiwiSaver service — see the Retirement Advice page.
It depends on your time horizon, your goals (first home vs retirement), and how you feel about ups and downs along the way. Many Kiwis remain in a fund that doesn't match their situation — often the one they were defaulted into. We help you find the fund and provider that genuinely fits.
Yes — switching providers is straightforward and there's generally no direct cost to you. We handle the paperwork and the new provider arranges the transfer. The bigger question is whether the new fund is right for you, and that's where our advice comes in.
In most cases there's no direct cost to you. We may receive commission from KiwiSaver providers, and this is disclosed in your individual Statement of Advice — so you'll always know how we're paid before you act on our advice.
In most cases, yes — after you've been a KiwiSaver member for at least three years you may be able to withdraw most of your balance towards your first home, subject to eligibility criteria. We can walk you through the process and make sure your fund is set up sensibly in the lead-up.
At least once a year, and whenever something significant changes — a new job, a pay rise, buying a home, or getting closer to retirement. A quick review can make a meaningful difference to your end balance.
See our KiwiSaver Advice page for the full picture, including how we review your fund at 65.
It depends on your debts, your income, who relies on you financially, and what you'd want covered if the unexpected happened. Rather than a rule of thumb, we calculate a tailored figure — enough to protect your family without paying for cover you don't need.
Usually nothing directly. We receive commission from insurers based on premiums placed, and commission rates are disclosed in your Statement of Advice. You get professional advice, policy structuring, and claims support without a separate fee in most cases.
Absolutely — this is where having an adviser matters most. We advocate for you with the insurer, manage the paperwork, and work to get your claim paid promptly and fairly. You deal with us, not a call centre.
Yes, especially if your circumstances have changed since you took it out. We'll compare your existing cover against your current needs. Importantly, we never recommend cancelling a policy until suitable replacement cover is confirmed and in force.
Most policies are 'rate for age', meaning premiums rise as you get older. Some covers can be structured on level premiums that stay flat for a set term. We help you structure your cover so it remains affordable for as long as you need it.
Our Personal & General Insurance page sets out the cover types we advise on and how we structure them.
For what our advice costs and how we are paid, see Our Fees.
Still have a question?
Ask an adviser directly. No cost, no obligation.
Our Fees
Your first conversation is free — and there is no obligation
Your initial consultation with a Certus adviser costs you nothing. We use it to understand your situation and to tell you honestly whether we can add value.
Fees by service
For ongoing investment advice, we charge an ongoing fee based on the balance of your portfolio. Depending on the engagement, an adviser fee and/or platform fees may also apply. All fees are fully disclosed and agreed with you before any advice is acted upon — there are no surprises.
For ongoing KiwiSaver advice, we charge an ongoing service fee. This is fully disclosed and agreed with you before any advice is acted upon — there are no surprises.
Common questions
For investment advice, we charge an annual fee based on the value of the assets we manage for you — your assets under management. The rate that applies to you is set out in writing and agreed with you before any advice is acted upon.
Fund and platform fees are set by the provider, not by us. Our ongoing service fee is separate and is always disclosed and agreed with you in advance — so you know exactly what you are paying for the advice, structuring and ongoing support you receive.
Yes — we charge ongoing service fees for the advice we provide. Whatever fee applies to your situation is set out in writing and agreed with you in advance. We do not charge fees you have not signed off on.
A conversation — in person, by phone or online — about where you are now and what you are trying to achieve. No cost, no obligation, and no pressure to proceed.
Still want it in plain numbers?
Book a free consultation and we will walk you through exactly what our advice would cost you — before you commit to anything.
Book a Free ConsultationPrivacy Policy
Last updated: January 2024 | This policy applies to Certus Financial Group and its advisers operating under the Wealthpoint network.
Your Privacy Matters to Us
Certus Financial Group ("Certus", "we", "us", "our") is committed to protecting your personal information. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose and safeguard your information in accordance with the New Zealand Privacy Act 2020.
By engaging our services or using our website, you consent to the practices described in this policy. If you have any questions, please contact us at enquiry@certusnz.co.nz.
1. Information We Collect
We collect personal information that is necessary to provide you with financial advice and related services. This may include:
- › Full name, date of birth, and contact details (address, phone, email)
- › Financial information including income, assets, liabilities, and KiwiSaver details
- › Employment status, tax residency, and IRD number (where required)
- › Health information (where relevant to insurance advice)
- › Identity verification documents (e.g. passport, driver licence) for AML/CFT purposes
- › Website usage data collected via cookies and analytics tools
We collect this information directly from you, from third parties (such as your employer or KiwiSaver provider) where you have authorised us to do so, and from publicly available sources.
2. How We Use Your Information
Your personal information is used to:
- › Provide personalised financial advice on KiwiSaver, insurance, and investment products
- › Assess your financial situation and recommend suitable products or strategies
- › Process applications and transactions on your behalf
- › Meet our Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) obligations
- › Conduct ongoing reviews and maintain your financial plan
- › Send you relevant updates, newsletters, and market information (with your consent)
- › Comply with legal, regulatory, and professional obligations
3. Sharing Your Information
We may share your information with:
- › Wealthpoint Limited — our licenced financial advice provider, for compliance and oversight purposes
- › Product providers — such as KiwiSaver managers, insurers, and investment platforms, to arrange products on your behalf
- › Regulatory bodies — including the FMA, IRD, and New Zealand Police, where legally required
- › Service providers — such as IT, compliance, and back-office support providers, who are bound by confidentiality obligations
We do not sell your personal information to third parties. We will only share your information beyond the above in circumstances where you have provided explicit consent, or where we are required to by law.
4. Storing & Protecting Your Information
Your information is stored securely in systems protected by appropriate technical and organisational safeguards. We retain personal information for as long as necessary to provide services or meet our regulatory obligations — generally a minimum of seven years following the end of our client relationship, in accordance with FMA requirements.
5. Your Rights
Under the Privacy Act 2020, you have the right to:
- › Request access to the personal information we hold about you
- › Request correction of inaccurate or outdated information
- › Withdraw consent to marketing communications at any time
- › Lodge a complaint with the Office of the Privacy Commissioner if you believe we have breached the Privacy Act
To exercise any of these rights, please contact us at enquiry@certusnz.co.nz or.
6. Cookies & Website Analytics
Our website uses cookies and third-party analytics tools to understand how visitors use our site. No personally identifiable information is collected through cookies without your consent. You may disable cookies in your browser settings, though this may affect some website functionality.
7. Contact Us
If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy or how we handle your information, please contact our Privacy Officer:
Certus Financial Group — Privacy Officer
161C Marua Road, Mt Wellington, Auckland 1051
Email: enquiry@certusnz.co.nz
Disclosure Statement
This disclosure statement is provided in accordance with the Financial Markets Conduct Act 2013 and the Financial Markets Conduct (Regulated Offers) Regulations 2016. It is required to be given to retail clients before financial advice is provided.
Financial Advice Provider Licence
Certus Financial Group (CFG) advisers provide financial advice on behalf of Wealthpoint Limited, which holds a licence issued by the Financial Markets Authority (FMA) to provide financial advice services.
Nature and Scope of Advice
Our advisers provide financial advice in the following areas:
- › KiwiSaver — fund selection, contribution strategy, and retirement advice
- › Personal & General Insurance Advice — life, trauma, income protection, health, home, contents and motor cover
- › Investment Advice — managed funds and portfolio strategies
Advice is limited to products from our approved provider panel. We do not provide advice on direct share investment, property, or legal matters. We will always tell you clearly what we can and cannot advise on.
Fees & Charges
We operate on the following fee basis depending on service type. A plain-English breakdown is on our Our Fees page.
No direct client fee. We receive commission from KiwiSaver providers, which is disclosed in your individual Statement of Advice.
No direct client fee. We receive commission from insurers based on premiums placed. Commission rates are disclosed in your Statement of Advice.
Fees vary by engagement type. An adviser fee and/or platform fees may apply. These will be fully disclosed before any advice is acted upon.
Conflicts of Interest
Certus advisers may receive remuneration from product providers in the form of commission or other incentives. To manage potential conflicts of interest:
- › All commissions and fees are disclosed in your individual Statement of Advice
- › Our advisers are bound by a Code of Professional Conduct requiring them to prioritise your interests
- › We conduct regular compliance reviews to ensure advice quality and impartiality
- › Wealthpoint Limited maintains oversight of all adviser conduct and conflicts management
Complaints
If you are not satisfied with our service or advice, please refer to our Complaints Process. We are a member of the Insurance & Financial Services Ombudsman (IFSO) Scheme, which provides free, independent dispute resolution for retail clients.
Contact
Certus Financial Group
161C Marua Road, Mt Wellington, Auckland 1051
PO Box 26621, Epsom 1344
Email: enquiry@certusnz.co.nz
Lodge a Complaint
We take all complaints seriously. If you are unhappy with any aspect of our advice or service, we want to hear from you. Our process is designed to be straightforward, fair, and timely.
How We Handle Your Complaint
Contact Your Adviser Directly
In the first instance, we encourage you to raise your concern directly with your Certus adviser. Many issues can be resolved quickly through a simple conversation. Your adviser's contact details are on your Statement of Advice.
Submit a Formal Complaint
If your concern is not resolved to your satisfaction, you can submit a formal complaint to our internal complaints team. We will:
- › Acknowledge your complaint within 2 business days
- › Investigate thoroughly and keep you informed of our progress
- › Provide a written response within 20 business days (or advise you if more time is needed)
Submit your complaint to our Complaints Team:
Email: complaints@certusnz.co.nz
Post: Certus Financial Group, PO Box 26621, Epsom, Auckland 1344
Independent Dispute Resolution — IFSO
If your complaint remains unresolved after our internal process, you may refer it to the Insurance & Financial Services Ombudsman (IFSO) Scheme. This is a free, independent service for retail clients.
Insurance & Financial Services Ombudsman
Email: info@ifso.nz
Phone: 0800 888 202
Website: www.ifso.nz
Post: PO Box 10845, Wellington 6143
What to Include in Your Complaint
To help us investigate quickly, please include:
- › Your full name and contact details
- › The name of the adviser involved
- › A clear description of what happened and the date(s) involved
- › Any relevant documents (e.g. Statement of Advice, correspondence)
- › What outcome you are seeking
Retirement Advice
Comprehensive retirement services
Retirement advice is about more than a number — it's about designing the life you want, and making sure your money lasts as long as you do.
Retirement Income Modelling
We project how much you'll need, when you can realistically retire, and what your income will look like — giving you a clear, evidence-based picture of your future.
NZ Superannuation Planning
We help you understand how NZ Super fits into your wider retirement income, and how to structure your other assets and savings alongside it.
Drawdown & Decumulation Strategies
We design tax-effective strategies for drawing down your assets in retirement — helping your money last, and reducing the risk of running out too soon.
Tax-Efficient Structures
We help you hold and draw on your investments through structures that keep more of your money working for you — including PIE tax rates and the right mix of accounts for your situation.
Estate & Succession Planning
We integrate estate planning principles into your retirement strategy, so your wealth is preserved and passed on according to your wishes.
Ongoing Portfolio Management
Retirement isn't a set-and-forget milestone. We review your portfolio regularly, rebalance as markets move, and adjust your strategy as your circumstances and goals change.
A clear process, personalised for you.
We take the time to understand where you are today and where you want to be. Our advice is always holistic — looking across investments, KiwiSaver, insurance, and retirement advice together, so nothing is overlooked.
We start with a relaxed, no-obligation discussion about your financial situation, goals, and what matters most to you. No forms, no pressure — just an honest conversation.
We look at the full picture — your investments, KiwiSaver, insurance, and retirement timeline — to understand how everything fits together and where the gaps are.
We build a clear, written plan tailored to your situation. This includes retirement income projections, investment recommendations, KiwiSaver optimisation, and insurance needs analysis.
We implement your plan and stay by your side. Annual reviews ensure your strategy adapts as your life changes — so you're always on track for the retirement you want.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about planning for retirement in New Zealand. Every situation is different — talk to us for advice specific to yours.
The honest answer is: as early as possible — time is the most powerful ingredient in retirement savings. But it's never too late to start. At every stage of life there are levers we can pull, from contribution rates and fund selection to drawdown strategy and debt structure.
There's no single magic number — it depends on the lifestyle you want, whether you'll own your home mortgage-free, and how long your retirement may last. We model your personal number based on your circumstances, so you have a clear, evidence-based target rather than a guess.
For most people, NZ Superannuation covers the basics but falls short of a comfortable lifestyle. The gap needs to come from KiwiSaver, investments, or other assets. We help you understand how NZ Super fits into your wider retirement income and plan around it.
Once you reach the qualifying age you can access your KiwiSaver, but you don't have to withdraw it all — many retirees keep it invested and draw a regular income from it. We design drawdown strategies that balance income today with making your money last.
Your first meeting is free and no-obligation. If you choose to proceed, any costs or commission are disclosed upfront in your Statement of Advice before you make any decisions.