The HTL Group - Blog by Lauren BennetThe HTL Group - Blog by Lauren Bennethttps://www.thehtlgroup.co.nz/blogs/author/lauren-bennetWed, 27 May 2026 05:05:44 +1000http://zoho.com/sites/<![CDATA[Will NZ Super always be enough? Why KiwiSaver matters more than ever]]>https://www.thehtlgroup.co.nz/blogs/post/will-nz-super-always-be-enoughRecent discussion around NZ Super is a reminder to review your KiwiSaver and take control of your retirement future with greater certainty.]]>

Will NZ Super always be enough? Why KiwiSaver matters more than ever

For many New Zealanders, NZ Super has traditionally been viewed as an important part of retirement planning. But recent media discussion around potential means testing of superannuation has brought retirement savings back into the spotlight.

To be clear, nothing has been confirmed and there are currently no changes to NZ Super. However, the conversation itself serves as a useful reminder of an important principle: relying solely on government support can create uncertainty, while building your own savings gives you greater control over your future.


Retirement may feel like a long way off for many people, but the decisions made today can have a significant impact on the lifestyle and financial flexibility available later in life.

Why this conversation is important

Government policies naturally evolve over time as economic conditions, demographics, and population needs change.

New Zealand, like many countries, is experiencing an ageing population and growing pressure on retirement systems. While nobody can predict exactly what the future may hold, it highlights why having your own retirement savings plan is increasingly important.

Building a strong KiwiSaver balance can help reduce reliance on future government decisions and provide more confidence about what retirement could look like for you.

 

Rather than asking:

"What will retirement provide for me?"

It can be helpful to ask:

"What lifestyle do I want retirement to look like?"

 

Small changes NOW can make a big difference long term

One of the biggest misconceptions around KiwiSaver is that once it's set up, there is nothing else to think about.

In reality, regular reviews can make a meaningful difference over time.

 

Questions worth asking include:

  • Am I contributing enough?
  • Am I receiving my full employer contributions?
  • Am I making the most of government tax credits?
  • Is my current fund aligned with my goals and timeframe?
  • Do I understand what my projected retirement income could look like?

Even small adjustments made now can create a significant difference over the long term thanks to the effects of regular contributions and investment growth.

 

Understanding what your future could look like

Many people know what their KiwiSaver balance is today, but far fewer understand what that balance may actually translate to in retirement.

Future income projections can help paint a clearer picture by estimating:

  • Potential KiwiSaver balances at retirement
  • Expected retirement income levels
  • Whether current contribution rates are likely to support your goals
  • Areas where changes today may improve future outcomes

For some people, the outcome may simply provide reassurance that they are on the right track. For others, it can highlight opportunities to make adjustments while there is still plenty of time.

 

Taking control of your retirement future

No one knows exactly what retirement policy settings may look like decades from now.

What people can control, however, are the decisions they make today.

Building your own retirement savings creates more flexibility, more choice, and more certainty around the lifestyle you want in later years.

 

At HTL Group, our advisers can help review your KiwiSaver, provide future income projections, and ensure your current approach aligns with your long-term goals.

If you haven’t reviewed your KiwiSaver recently, now could be a good time to start the conversation.

Book a Kiwisaver check-in
Retirement Planning
]]>Mon, 25 May 2026 12:09:27 +1200<![CDATA[The Cyber attack that happened closer to home than expected]]>https://www.thehtlgroup.co.nz/blogs/post/cyber-insurance-nz-businessesA recent cyber breach involving a local business is a reminder that cyber attacks can happen to any organisation — even those with strong IT systems in place. Here’s what happened and why cyber insurance matters more than ever.]]>

The Cyber attack that happened closer to home than expected

For many business owners, cyber attacks still feel like something that happens to “big companies” or organisations overseas.

The reality is very different.

Cyber breaches are becoming increasingly common across New Zealand, affecting businesses of all sizes - from professional services firms and tradies through to large corporates. And often, it starts with something as simple as a compromised email account.

Recently, a local business known to our team experienced this firsthand. Despite having strong IT systems and working closely with a professional IT provider, an employee’s work email account was hacked by a third party.

What happened next unfolded incredibly quickly.

Hundreds of emails sent within minutes

Initially, the hackers tested the compromised account by sending a small number of fraudulent emails to business contacts. These emails appeared legitimate and included invoice-style payment requests designed to trick recipients into transferring money.

As concerned contacts began replying to query the unusual emails, the business immediately engaged their IT provider to investigate. While remotely monitoring the account live, they watched in real time as hundreds of emails were rapidly created, sent, deleted, and removed from deleted folders. All within minutes.

Had the issue not been identified quickly, the consequences could have been significant.

Clients could have unknowingly transferred substantial sums of money to fraudulent bank accounts, and the breach may not have been discovered until much later.

The hidden impact of a cyber breach

While financial loss is often the first thing people associate with cyber attacks, the wider disruption to the business was significant.

The response process involved:

  • Contacting clients and business contacts immediately

  • Working through compliance and reporting obligations

  • Lodging the incident with the Privacy Commission

  • Resetting passwords and strengthening security settings

  • Upgrading email protections and systems

  • Managing the stress and operational disruption across the business

Even though the breach was identified quickly and no financial losses occurred, a considerable amount of time and resource went into managing the situation.

And importantly, this was a business that already had strong IT support and security measures in place.

Why Cyber Insurance matters

One of the key takeaways from the experience was the reassurance that came from having cyber insurance in place.

While many people think cyber insurance is simply about covering financial losses, it often provides access to specialist support teams who guide businesses through the response process during a highly stressful time.

In this case, the cyber insurer worked alongside the business and IT provider to help manage the incident, provide guidance on next steps, and support the business through the compliance and response process.

That expert support proved invaluable.

It’s not just big Businesses at risk

Cyber attacks are no longer isolated to major corporations.

Across New Zealand, businesses of all sizes are being targeted, including small local firms. In some cases, hacked email accounts have been used to send fake invoices requesting large payments from unsuspecting clients.

The methods are becoming more sophisticated, and unfortunately, even careful businesses with strong systems can still be vulnerable.

Is your business prepared?

If your business relies on:

  • Email communication

  • Online systems

  • Client information

  • Digital payments or invoicing

…then cyber risk is something worth reviewing.

Cyber insurance policies can vary significantly depending on the level of protection and support provided, and having the right cover in place can make a major difference if an incident occurs.

At The HTL Group we work with businesses to help identify the right level of cyber protection for their needs - providing support before, during, and after a claim.

Protect your business today
Cyber threats are no longer a question of “if” but “when.” Businesses of all sizes need to take proactive steps to protect their data, customers, and bottom line.
At The HTL Group, we specialise in helping businesses secure the right Cyber Liability Insurance to safeguard their operations, reputation, and financial health.
Get in touch with HTL Group today  to find out how we can help protect your business from cyber threats before it’s too late.


]]>Wed, 13 May 2026 10:17:20 +1200<![CDATA[HTL Group expands into Cromwell to support growing Central Otago community]]>https://www.thehtlgroup.co.nz/blogs/post/insurance-financial-advice-cromwellNow in Cromwell, HTL Group offers trusted local insurance, mortgage and financial advice across Central Otago. Book your free review today.]]>

HTL Group expands into Cromwell to support growing Central Otago community

As demand for trusted, local financial advice continues to grow across the South Island, HTL Group has officially expanded into Cromwell, establishing a dedicated presence in the heart of Central Otago.

While some members of the team bring more than 40 years’ experience, the modern HTL Group traces its origins to the mid-1990s, when a group of AMP insurance agents came together to form what has evolved into today’s business. The HTL brand, “Help Through Life”, is embodied in its infinity-inspired logo and guided by values of integrity, trust, dependability and care, reflecting a strong commitment to long-term client relationships.

A strategic move to support South Island clients

With an increasing number of clients based throughout the South Island, HTL Group recognised the need to be closer to the communities it serves.

Having a local presence allows the team to better support clients in an evolving insurance environment, one that has become more complex in recent years.

Shifts toward risk-based pricing and stricter underwriting requirements mean many individuals, farmers, and business owners are now seeking more personalised guidance when making insurance decisions.

HTL Group has experienced significant growth in response to this demand, reinforcing the importance of strong, long-term client relationships.

Local knowledge, backed by national expertise

Based at 7a Venning Crescent, Cromwell, the local team is well positioned to support clients across Central Otago and beyond.

The Cromwell team is made up of experienced advisers who understand the unique needs of the region.

Mariana Phillips (pictured left) leads the Cromwell presence, focused on building strong, long-term relationships with local clients.

Jodi Gillam-Taylor (pictured right) brings a background in life and risk underwriting support, alongside hands-on experience in domestic insurance and orchard management in Roxburgh, giving her a well-rounded understanding of both lifestyle and rural clients.

Together, they provide practical, relevant advice tailored to the Central Otago community.

Importantly, while clients can work directly with the Cromwell-based team, they are also supported by the wider HTL Group network (pictured below) giving access to a larger team of specialists across insurance, investments and lending.

A full-service offering for individuals and businesses

The Cromwell office primarily focuses on general insurance, supporting:

  • Corporate and commercial clients

  • Farmers and rural operators

  • Domestic insurance needs

In addition, clients can access a full suite of services through the wider HTL network, including:

  • Life, health and risk insurance

  • KiwiSaver guidance

  • Bespoke investment advice

  • Mortgage broking support

By maintaining strong connections between offices, the Cromwell team can seamlessly connect clients with the right specialists across New Zealand.

Investing in a region on the rise

Cromwell is rapidly emerging as a key hub within Central Otago, no longer playing second to larger centres, but establishing itself as a thriving and strategically positioned community.

Located to service Otago, Southland, and beyond, Cromwell offers strong connectivity to regions such as Canterbury and Nelson/Tasman.

With this growth comes increased demand for professional services, particularly those that can support both business and personal financial decision-making.

HTL Group’s expansion reflects a long-standing commitment to working closely with clients at a grassroots level.


Local support, when it matters most

Whether you're reviewing your insurance, exploring lending options, or planning for the future, the Cromwell team is now available to support you locally, backed by the strength of a national advisory network.

Book your free Insurance or Mortgage review today!
]]>Fri, 17 Apr 2026 10:56:55 +1200<![CDATA[Turning a one-off payout into a long-term advantage: Make your Fonterra payout work harder for you!]]>https://www.thehtlgroup.co.nz/blogs/post/fonterra-payout-financial-planningMake the most of your Fonterra payout with smart debt, investment and mortgage strategies. Learn how to turn a one-off payment into long-term financial advantage.]]>

Turning a one-off payout into a long-term advantage: Make your Fonterra payout work harder for you!

For many New Zealand farmers, April 2026 brings a unique financial opportunity.

With Fonterra distributing a significant one-off payout to shareholders and unit holders, many will see a substantial cash injection hit their accounts.

Moments like this don’t come around often.

The real opportunity lies not just in receiving the payout, but in how you use it.

A one-off event. A long-term opportunity.

This isn’t regular income. It’s a capital event.

That means it presents a rare chance to make strategic decisions that can shape your financial position for years to come - whether that’s reducing pressure, creating flexibility, or building future income streams.

1. Strengthen your position, but don’t stop there

For many farmers, the first instinct is to pay down debt and in many cases, that’s a smart move.

Reducing lending can:

  • Improve cashflow

  • Lower interest costs

  • Provide greater financial security

But it’s worth taking a step back before allocating everything in one direction.

A common trap is using the entire payout to reduce debt, without considering how to also create future income or flexibility.

2. Think about future income, not just today’s balance sheet

While reducing debt can strengthen your current position, it doesn’t always create income for the future.

This is where a more balanced approach can be powerful.

For example:

  • Allocating a portion toward investments alongside debt reduction

  • Building an investment portfolio that generates returns over time

  • Creating income streams that aren’t reliant on a future farm sale

For those nearing retirement, this can be particularly important.

Establishing an investment fund now can provide:

  • Access to capital when needed

  • Flexibility in retirement

  • An additional income source beyond the farm

3. Get the right strategy and support around you

Making the most of a payout like this isn’t about picking one option, it’s about having a plan that aligns with your goals.

At The HTL Group, our advisers work alongside you to:

  • Understand your current position and future plans

  • Design an investment strategy tailored to your needs

  • Partner you with reputable fund managers

  • Ensure your approach is structured, intentional, and aligned long-term

Having the right guidance can make a significant difference, not just in returns, but in confidence and clarity.

4. Review your lending and unlock opportunity

A payout like this can also be a powerful tool when it comes to your lending structure.

With the right advice, you may be able to:

  • Restructure existing lending

  • Reduce interest costs

  • Improve cashflow

  • Position yourself for future opportunities

Our mortgage team can also support farmers looking to explore:

  • Investment property opportunities

  • Lending structures that create flexibility

  • Strategies that align with both short and long-term goals

5. Be intentional, not reactive

It’s easy for a payout to be gradually absorbed - through expenses, reinvestment, or simply sitting in the wrong place.

Taking the time to step back and plan can help ensure:

  • Your money is working efficiently

  • Your decisions align with your long-term goals

  • You’re making the most of a one-off opportunity

Turning your payout into long-term advantage

At The HTL Group, we work with farmers and business owners to help turn moments like this into meaningful progress.

By bringing together expertise across:

  • Wealth and investment planning

  • Mortgage and lending strategy

  • Insurance services

We help ensure your decisions today support where you want to be tomorrow.

Make your payout count

This is a one-off event, but the decisions you make now can shape your financial future for years to come.

If you’d like to talk through your options, the team at The HTL Group is here to help.

Image below shows our wonderful Wealth team (from left), Allison Stenning, Lindsay Thomson and Allie Black.

Book a free Investment check-in
]]>Thu, 09 Apr 2026 12:18:00 +1200<![CDATA[What Investors need to know about refinancing in 2026]]>https://www.thehtlgroup.co.nz/blogs/post/what-investors-need-to-know-about-refinancing-in-2026You may be closer to an investment property than you think. Learn how refinancing in 2026 could unlock new opportunities for investors.]]>

What Investors need to know about refinancing in 2026

If you own property (or you’ve been thinking about investing), 2026 could present more opportunity than you realise.

We’re seeing improving economic conditions and renewed confidence in the property market. But one of the biggest missed opportunities right now isn’t buying… it’s not reviewing your current mortgage structure.

Because in many cases, the ability to invest isn’t about earning more, it’s about structuring smarter.

Is your mortgage structure still right for 2026?


A lot can change in a few years:

  • Property values may have increased

  • Lending conditions have shifted

  • Your income or business performance may have improved

  • Interest rate environments have moved

But most people are still sitting on the same mortgage structure they set up years ago.

That structure might have been right then, but it may not be right now.

And more importantly, it could be limiting your ability to grow your portfolio.


The biggest misconception: "I can't afford to invest yet"

One of the most common things Serina hears from clients is:

“We’d love to buy an investment property… but we’re probably not in a position to.”

In reality, that’s often not the case.

Many clients come to Serina simply looking for a mortgage review or restructure, and through that process, discover they’re actually in a position to purchase an investment property sooner than they thought.

Not because they suddenly earn more.
But because their lending has been restructured in a smarter, more strategic way.


Why refinancing matters more than ever in 2026

With interest rates sitting lower and the market beginning to move again, timing matters.

Investors who review and position themselves now are often better placed to:

  • Act quickly on opportunities

  • Improve cashflow

  • Reduce unnecessary interest costs

  • Leverage equity more effectively

Waiting until the market peaks again can mean missing the window to act strategically.

Smart structuring options investors should be considering

Every investor’s situation is different, but there are a few key tools that can make a significant difference when used correctly:

Revolving Credit

Gives you flexibility to manage cashflow, park income, and reduce interest over time, while still having access to funds when needed.

Offset Accounts

Allows you to offset savings against your mortgage balance, reducing the interest you pay without locking funds away.

Loan splitting & structuring

Separating lending across properties or purposes can create clarity, flexibility, and better long-term control.

The key isn’t just using these tools, it’s using them in the right way, aligned to your long-term goals.

Serina's approach: no fluff, just strategy

Serina’s approach is simple:

No fluff. No sales pitch. Just the facts.

Every conversation starts with a full fact find, looking at:

  • Your current lending

  • Your income and financial position

  • Your short-term and long-term goals

From there, it’s about building a structure that supports where you want to go, not just where you are today.

This isn’t transactional. It’s about long-term planning and making informed decisions.

Could you be closer than you think?

If you haven’t reviewed your mortgage structure recently, there’s a good chance there are opportunities you haven’t uncovered yet.

Whether your goal is to:

  • Purchase your first investment property

  • Expand your portfolio

  • Improve your current lending position

The first step isn’t buying, it’s understanding what’s possible.

Start with a conversation

If you’re curious about what your current structure could be doing better, or whether you’re in a position to invest, Serina is always happy to have a straightforward, no-pressure conversation.

Get in touch with Serina at the HTL Group for a free mortgage review.


About Serina Nicholson, Mortgage Adviser
]]>Thu, 26 Mar 2026 12:08:10 +1300<![CDATA[There's now more choice in Rural Insurance. What does this mean for farmers in 2026?]]>https://www.thehtlgroup.co.nz/blogs/post/rural-insurance-changes-in-2026Explore how increased competition in rural insurance is creating new opportunities for farmers in 2026. Learn why now is the time to review your cover.]]>

*HTL have expanded and are now supporting the Central Otago Region*
​There's now more choice in Rural Insurance. What does this mean for farmers in 2026?
​For many years, rural insurance in New Zealand has largely been dominated by a single major provider. While this has offered stability, it has also meant limited competition in the market. Recently, that landscape has started to change. A new rural insurance offering has entered the market, creating more competition and giving farmers greater choice when it comes to protecting their operations. For farming businesses, this shift could present a valuable opportunity.

Request a Rural Insurance review today!

What increased competition means for farmers

Greater competition in the rural insurance sector can bring several benefits:


More competitive pricing

When insurers compete, it often creates opportunities for more favourable premiums.


More flexible cover options

Different insurers structure policies differently. More providers mean farmers can access policies that better reflect the way their farm operates.


Specialist rural expertise

New rural-focused offerings are being designed specifically for farming businesses, with claims teams and advisers who understand the sector.


Why a review may be worthwhile


As farms evolve, whether through expansion, diversification, or investment in new assets, insurance needs can change.


At the same time, shifts in the insurance market can create opportunities to improve coverage or reduce costs.


Recently, HTL reviewed the policy of a rural client and identified an opportunity to move their cover to a new rural insurer. The result was a $5,000 annual saving while maintaining the same level of protection.


This example highlights the value of regularly reviewing your insurance arrangements.


The role of an independent broker

One of the advantages of working with a broker is access to the wider market.

Rather than being limited to a single insurer, brokers can compare multiple providers to help ensure your policy remains competitive and fit for purpose.

At HTL, our rural advisers work closely with farmers to understand their operations and identify the most appropriate insurance solutions.


Is it time for a review?

If it has been several years since your farm insurance was last reviewed, now may be an ideal time to reassess your options.

With new insurers entering the market and increased competition emerging, there may be opportunities to improve cover or reduce costs.

If you would like a review of your rural insurance, our team would be happy to help.


Why The HTL Group

At HTL Group, our support extends beyond rural insurance. We work alongside clients across all areas of risk and financial planning, including personal insurance such as life and health, disability & trauma cover, business and commercial, travel, as well as general insurance for homes, vehicles, and assets. We also provide advice on wealth planning and investment strategies, along with mortgage and lending support. This integrated approach means you can have one trusted team helping you make confident decisions across every stage of your financial journey.


Get in touch if you would like a review!
]]>Thu, 19 Mar 2026 12:52:00 +1300<![CDATA[New Construction Liability Rules in New Zealand and what they mean for builders and designers]]>https://www.thehtlgroup.co.nz/blogs/post/new-construction-liability-rules-in-new-zealand-and-what-they-mean-for-builders-and-designersNew Zealand’s construction sector is moving to proportionate liability. Learn what the changes mean for builders, architects, engineers and your insurance cover.]]>

The Government has announced significant changes to liability rules in New Zealand’s construction sector, aimed at improving consumer protection and creating a fairer allocation of risk across building projects.

The reform moves the industry away from the long-standing “joint and several liability” model to a “proportionate liability” framework.

For builders, developers, architects, engineers and project managers, this is more than a technical legal change, it has real implications for how risk is allocated and insured.

 

Here’s what you need to know.

 

What’s changing?

Under the current joint and several liability model, any one party involved in a building project can be held responsible for the entire cost of defective work, even if other parties contributed to the issue but are unable to pay.

Under the new proportionate liability model, each party will be responsible only for their share of the loss or damage.

This reform is designed to:

  • Improve fairness in how liability is allocated
  • Reduce disproportionate financial exposure
  • Strengthen accountability across the sector

You can read the full Government announcement via MBIE here:
www.mbie.govt.nz/about/news/new-liability-rules-for-the-construction-sector-to-improve-consumer-protection

 

What is proportionate liability (in plain English)?

In simple terms:

If multiple parties are involved in a project and something goes wrong, each party will only be responsible for the percentage of fault attributed to them.

This is a shift away from scenarios where one solvent party (often the one with insurance) bears the full financial burden if others cannot meet their obligations.

While this reduces unfair exposure for some, it also increases the importance of:

  • Clear contracts
  • Defined scopes of responsibility
  • Adequate professional indemnity and liability cover

 

Additional protections being introduced

Alongside the move to proportionate liability, the Government is introducing further safeguards:

 

Mandatory home warranties

Most new residential builds and major renovations will require mandatory home warranties, providing additional protection for homeowners.

 

Professional indemnity requirements

Design professionals such as architects and engineers will be required to hold professional indemnity insurance.

These measures aim to:

  • Improve consumer confidence
  • Strengthen professional accountability
  • Ensure financial backing exists if issues arise

 

Who is most affected?

These changes will directly impact:

  • Builders
  • Residential developers
  • Architects
  • Engineers
  • Design consultants
  • Project managers

Even subcontractors may see indirect impacts through contract structures and risk transfer clauses.

If you operate within the construction sector, it’s important to understand how your exposure may shift under the new framework.

 

What this means for your insurance programme

The move to proportionate liability does not remove risk, it redistributes it.

Now is a sensible time to review:

  • Public Liability cover limits
  • Professional Indemnity policy wording and limits
  • Contractual liability clauses
  • Run-off cover (where applicable)
  • Alignment between contractual obligations and insurance protection

Many construction businesses assume their current cover will respond in the same way it has historically. With structural regulatory change, that assumption should be tested.

 

What should you do now?

As these reforms are rolled out this year, consider:

  1. Reviewing your current liability structure
  2. Checking professional indemnity requirements (if applicable)
  3. Ensuring contract terms reflect insurable risk
  4. Speaking with an adviser about potential gaps

Early review is far easier (and less stressful) than responding after a claim arises.

 

How HTL can help

At HTL Group, we work with a range of commercial clients across Taranaki and beyond, including businesses operating in construction and related sectors.

Regulatory shifts like this are a reminder that insurance should evolve alongside the legal environment.


If you’d like to discuss how these changes could impact your business, we’re happy to have a conversation and review your current liability programme.


Contact our team here:  www.thehtlgroup.co.nz/contact

Get Started Now
]]>Thu, 26 Feb 2026 12:24:15 +1300<![CDATA[Why the start of the year is the right time to review your Investments]]>https://www.thehtlgroup.co.nz/blogs/post/why-the-start-of-the-year-is-the-right-time-to-review-your-investments1The start of a new year is the ideal time to review your investment strategy. Learn what to revisit in 2026 and when to seek professional advice.]]>

Why the start of the year is the right time to review your Investments

The start of a new year is often when people pause, reset, and think about what’s ahead. From a financial perspective, it’s also one of the best times to step back and review whether your investment strategy is still working for you.

Here are a few key themes our advisers regularly discuss with clients at the beginning of the year:

Why January is a good time to review

A new year naturally brings change: new goals, new priorities, and sometimes new financial commitments. Reviewing your investments early allows you to check that your strategy still aligns with where you’re heading, rather than reacting later under pressure.

 

One thing everyone should review

One of the most important things to review is whether your investments still match your current situation. If your income, family circumstances, business interests, or timeframes have changed or are about to, your investment strategy may need to change too.

 

The biggest Investment mistake we see

A common mistake is relying on investment advice from family members or friends. While well-intentioned, their circumstances, risk tolerance, and goals are rarely the same as yours. What worked for someone else may not be appropriate for you.

 

A sign your strategy might no longer be right

If your financial situation has changed (or you know it’s about to) it’s time to speak with an adviser. Major life events, business changes, or shifts in income are strong signals that your strategy should be reviewed to ensure it still applies.

 

What we wish more people understood about long-term Investing

Long-term investing works best when decisions are made calmly and with support. Trying to navigate uncertainty alone, or reacting to market noise, often leads to unnecessary stress and poor outcomes. There is help available and using it can make all the difference.

 

Thinking about reviewing your investment strategy this year?
A short conversation with an adviser can provide clarity and confidence as you head into 2026.


Book a free Investment check-in
]]>Thu, 15 Jan 2026 10:42:57 +1300<![CDATA[Investment Advice isn't just for "rich people".]]>https://www.thehtlgroup.co.nz/blogs/post/investment-advice-isn-t-just-for-rich-people-.Investment advice isn’t just for the wealthy. Read how everyday Kiwis are building financial confidence with HTL’s Wealth Advisers.]]>
Book a Catch Up!

When many people hear the word “investment”, they imagine it’s only for those with a few hundred thousand to spare. But the Wealth team at The HTL Group see something very different every day.

Investment advice isn’t just for the wealthy, it’s for anyone who wants their money to work harder, gain confidence in their financial future, and have the flexibility to enjoy life along the way.

Whether you’re just starting out, navigating a life change, or preparing for retirement, professional advice can help you make informed decisions that align with your goals.

Here’s some real stories of Taranaki Kiwis investing, all at different ages, stages and bank balances. We love that they have all been able to invest with confidence.

--> Young client wanting to grow her savings

One of our younger clients came to us after buying her first home and getting engaged. With KiwiSaver already ticking away, she wanted to explore other ways to grow her savings, but without locking them up until retirement.

Together, we discussed the benefits of managed funds as a flexible, long-term solution. With just a modest initial investment and regular contributions, she was able to start building wealth in a way that fits her life stage and budget.

With just $1,000, this client was able to open an account with Milford, a trusted New Zealand fund manager. From there, she set up regular contributions that fit her budget and lifestyle.

“I loved that we could start small,” she says. “It made investing feel realistic for where we’re at right now and it’s exciting to know that we’re building something for the future.”

It’s a great example of how investing doesn’t have to be complex or reserved for high-net-worth individuals, it simply requires a plan that grows with you.

--> Middle-aged Mum of two facing a major life change

Another client reached out following a major life change. After a separation, she had a lump sum and wanted to make sure her money could support both her and her children.

Her adviser, Allie, helped her structure her funds into different portfolios: one to generate income for herself, and another to set aside money for her daughters’ future needs. This included:

  • A main investment portfolio split between balanced and managed funds for growth and stability.

  • $10,000 invested for each of her daughters, ready for their future needs.

“I had some money in term deposits, but rates were dropping. I knew I needed advice on how to make it work harder,” our client says. “I also needed some certainty and a plan during what was a very uncertain time for me”.

By moving beyond term deposits and creating a diversified plan, she gained both financial security and peace of mind.

Examples like this show how thoughtful advice can bring clarity and confidence when life takes unexpected turns.

--> Retired couple wanting their money to last

A retired couple we work with described themselves as “nervous investors” when they first came to HTL. They wanted to make their savings last through retirement but weren’t sure how to begin or who to trust.

Their adviser, Allie, consolidated various accounts into a simple, easy-to-manage portfolio that provides regular income on top of their pension.

“We didn’t want anything risky,” they shared. “We just wanted to know our money would last and support our lifestyle.”

Since setting up their plan in 2019, they’ve enjoyed the stability of monthly payments, the freedom to withdraw funds for holidays or big purchases, and the reassurance that their money is working for them, not the other way around.

As you read this, they’re most likely travelling around in their campervan, enjoying their well-deserved retirement without the stress of financial uncertainty.

Can you relate to any of these situations?

We believe investment advice should be accessible, personal, and empowering. You don’t need to have half a million dollars to start,  just the willingness to plan ahead and have a trusted adviser by your side.

No matter your stage of life, there’s an investment strategy that can help you achieve your goals with confidence.

Talk to one of our HTL Wealth Advisers today for a free investment chat:

Fill out the Contact Form on our website: www.thehtlgroup.co.nz/contact 

OR email our wealth team directly: wealth@thehtlgroup.co.nz

Contact us to book a free Investment chat!
]]>Thu, 13 Nov 2025 15:45:52 +1300<![CDATA[Think you don’t need life or health Insurance yet? Here’s why you actually might…]]>https://www.thehtlgroup.co.nz/blogs/post/think-you-don-t-need-life-or-health-insurance-yet-here-s-why-you-actually-mightMost Kiwis don’t have life or health insurance, but it’s easier and more affordable than you might think. Discover why now’s the perfect time to get covered and how The HTL Group can help protect what matters most.]]>
Book a Catch Up!

Most of us know someone who’s had their world turned upside down by illness, injury, or loss, yet fewer than half of New Zealanders have life insurance, and even fewer have private health cover. 

It’s easy to see why.

Between the cost of living, mortgages, and family commitments, insurance can feel like a “someday” task, something you’ll sort out later. Life and health insurance aren’t just for “older” people or those with high incomes. They’re for anyone who wants to protect their future and the people who depend on them.

Myth #1 - "I'm young and healthy, I don't need Insurance yet"

That’s exactly what most people think… until something unexpected happens.
Serious illness, accidents, and sudden health issues don’t discriminate by age. In fact, setting up cover while you’re young and healthy often means lower premiums and broader options, because insurers see you as a lower risk.


Myth #2 - "I can't afford it"

What most people don’t realise is that a basic level of protection can cost less than your weekly coffee habit.

There are flexible options designed to fit different stages of life, from simple life cover that supports your family if something happens to you, to health cover that ensures you can get fast treatment without the long public wait times.

Our advisers can help you find cover that balances affordability with peace of mind so you’re not paying for more than you need.


Myth #3 - "It's too complicated"

That’s where we come in.
At The HTL Group, our advisers make it simple, we take the time to understand your situation, explain how each option works, and tailor something that fits your lifestyle and budget. No jargon. No pressure.


“Many people are surprised at how straightforward it is once we talk it through. The hardest part is just starting the conversation.”
- Lachlan Bunn, HTL Group Director & Adviser

Protecting what matters most...

Insurance isn’t just about money, it’s about peace of mind.

If something unexpected happens, if you have the right protection in place, your family won’t have to worry about bills, mortgage payments, or waiting months for treatment. It gives you the freedom to focus on what truly matters: recovery, security, and time with loved ones.


Take the first step - it's easier than you think!

Whether you’re thinking about starting a family, buying a home, or simply want to feel more secure, getting insurance advice now is one of the smartest financial moves you can make.

Our friendly team at The HTL Group can help you understand what kind of protection makes sense for your stage of life and how affordable it can be.

Get in touch today to chat with one of our advisers.
It’s free, it’s local, and it could make all the difference for your future.

Click the button below to  book a chat with an HTL Insurance Adviser today!

Contact us to book an Insurance chat!
Download our First-Home Buyers roadmap today!
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