Market overview
KiwiSaver continues to grow in strength, with total assets now sitting close to $140 billion, according to the latest Morningstar KiwiSaver Survey (December 2025). Over the December quarter, assets increased by almost $5 billion, driven by positive market returns and ongoing member contributions.
Investments in international markets performed well, while lower-risk options delivered more stable returns. This shows why it is important to spread your money across different types of investments, take a long term approach, and make sure your fund matches your stage of life.
Nearly two decades after its launch, KiwiSaver remains one of the most powerful tools available to everyday Kiwis for building long-term financial security.
How funds performed in 2025
For the year ended December 2025, the following fund categories delivered the following returns:
- Conservative funds: around 5.8 percent
- Moderate funds: around 6.8 percent
- Balanced funds: around 9.5 percent
- Growth funds: around 9.7 percent
- Aggressive funds: close to 12.8 percent
Over time, higher-growth funds have continued to deliver stronger average returns, reflecting the close link between risk and reward.
A more complex KiwiSaver landscape
The KiwiSaver market now includes around 25 providers and more than 330 investment products. While greater choice is positive, it also makes decision-making more complex. Annual member fees exceed $1.1 billion, reinforcing how important it is to understand where your money is going.
At Apex Advice, we work independently with leading providers to help ensure your KiwiSaver investment aligns with your goals, values, and comfort with risk.
Why regular reviews matter
How has your KiwiSaver account performed in the last quarter? When was the last time you checked whether your KiwiSaver investment is still right for you?
Many Kiwis set up their KiwiSaver account early and never review it. Over time, this can mean being in a fund that no longer suits your goals, is not competitively priced, or is missing opportunities for stronger long-term performance.
As your life changes, your KiwiSaver investment should change with it. Reviewing your fund, contributions and overall strategy helps keep your investment aligned with your current stage of life. With employer and employee contribution rates set to increase to 3.5%, it’s also a great time to check that your KiwiSaver account is set up to suit your needs.
Our investment advisers can help you review your options and make informed decisions with confidence.
Complete the form below to review your KiwiSaver investment or speak with one of our advisers today.
Wherever you are on your investment journey, we can help.
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