KiwiSaver Default Funds: Are You Still in One?
Ever wondered if your KiwiSaver savings are parked in a default fund, quietly chugging along without you steering the ship? With over 3 million Kiwis...
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Sarah Mitchell
Senior Finance Writer
333
Articles
Sarah covers personal finance, tax, and KiwiSaver topics for Lifetimes NZ. She focuses on making money management straightforward and practical for everyday Kiwis.
Expertise & Credentials
I write to help New Zealanders make confident financial decisions with clear, accurate information.
Areas of Expertise
Personal Finance
Tax
KiwiSaver
Budgeting
Insurance
Articles by Sarah Mitchell
333 articles published
Categories:
Money & Finance (192)
KiwiSaver & Retirement (11)
KiwiSaver Basics and Fund Selection (2)
Best Savings Accounts NZ 2025 (1)
How to Budget in NZ (1)
First-Home Buyer's Mortgage Guide (2)
Best Car Insurance NZ 2025 (1)
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Immigration & Moving (1)
Taxes Explained (7)
Trip Planning (1)
KiwiSaver Withdrawal for First Home (1)
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AEWV (1)
Term Deposits vs Bonds (1)
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Budget 2025 KiwiSaver Changes (1)
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Tax (1)
Business Setup (1)
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NZ Superannuation & Retirement (1)
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KiwiSaver vs Other Retirement Options (2)
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KiwiSaver Fees Explained: How Much Are You Really Paying?
Ever wondered where your hard-earned KiwiSaver contributions are really going? With fees quietly nibbling at your retirement nest egg, understanding t...
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KiwiSaver at 65: Your Withdrawal Options Explained
Turning 65 marks a pivotal moment for Kiwis who've diligently saved through KiwiSaver—it's when those locked-away funds finally become accessible, off...
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KiwiSaver Serious Illness Withdrawal: When You Can Access Funds
Imagine facing a diagnosis that turns your world upside down—a serious illness that not only threatens your health but also your financial stability....
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KiwiSaver Contribution Holiday: Taking a Break from Payments
Feeling the pinch with KiwiSaver deductions eating into your paycheck? A KiwiSaver contribution holiday could be the relief you need, letting you paus...
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PIE Funds vs Regular Savings: Tax Advantages Explained
Imagine earning interest on your savings, only to watch a big chunk disappear to tax at your personal income rate of up to 39%. Now picture keeping mo...
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Bonus Saver Accounts NZ: Rules and Best Options 2025
If you're looking to make your savings work harder, a bonus saver account could be the perfect fit. These accounts reward you for growing your balance...
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Children's Savings Accounts NZ: Best Options for Kids
Imagine watching your child's eyes light up as their pocket money grows into real savings, complete with interest that teaches the magic of compound g...
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Joint vs Individual Bank Accounts: What Couples Should Know
Imagine this: you're building a life together in New Zealand, splitting rent in Auckland, saving for a KiwiSaver boost towards that first home, or jus...
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Online-Only Banks NZ: Are They Safe and Worth It?
Imagine ditching the queues at your local branch, managing your money from your phone anywhere in New Zealand, and potentially earning higher interest...
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Mortgage Stress Test: Can You Afford Rate Rises?
Imagine locking in your dream home at rock-bottom rates, only to face a refix that spikes your repayments by $600 a month. For many Kiwis, this isn't...
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LVR Rules NZ Explained: Loan-to-Value Ratio Requirements
If you're thinking about buying a home or investment property in New Zealand, you've probably heard the term "LVR" thrown around by banks and mortgage...
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