Chris | Christian Kiwisaver Scheme

Budget 2025 and KiwiSaver: Commentary from Christian KiwiSaver Scheme

by Chris | 26 May, 2025 | KiwiSaver

The 2025 Budget announcements on changes to KiwiSaver invite us to reflect on how we prepare for the future.

Among the most significant shifts is the planned increase in the contribution rate from 3% to 3.5% initially, and to 4% by 2028. As the manager of Christian KiwiSaver Scheme, Anglican Financial Care supports this change. Even a small increase in regular savings can make a meaningful difference over time, especially when invested wisely. This is about fostering financial resilience.

At the same time, we know many families are feeling the pressure of rising living costs. For those doing it tough, it’s important to know that while the contribution rate is increasing, individuals are still able to choose to stay at the 3% contribution level. KiwiSaver remains flexible, and although making consistent contributions is best, you can choose to suspend them for 12 months (or more). Our helpful and friendly Christian KiwiSaver Scheme team can assist our members to make any of these changes.

Back to the good points with the Budget announcements, we’re especially encouraged by the decision to extend the KiwiSaver contribution rules to working 16 and 17 year-olds. Getting young people to start saving early will bear fruit across their lifetime, building a stronger foundation for their future. But again, for those struggling with their day to day needs, the same flexibility described above applies to these young workers.

There are also going to be adjustments to the Government’s KiwiSaver contribution, down from about $520 per year to $260 (and this will only be available to those earning less than $180,000). While we are sorry to see the Government contribution being reduced, it was always, frankly, a ‘gift’. The heart of KiwiSaver remains in each person’s ongoing effort to save, supported by employers and by the long-term investment strategies of scheme managers.

At Anglican Financial Care, we remain committed to supporting our members through whatever changes lie ahead.

Christian KiwiSaver Scheme is managed and issued by The New Zealand Anglican Church Pension Board (trading as Anglican Financial Care). The Product Disclosure Statement can be found here Documents | Christian KiwiSaver Scheme.

Making the most of your KiwiSaver savings after 65

by Chris | 21 Mar, 2025 | Financial Planning

Turning 65 is an important milestone, not just in life but also in your financial journey. For Christian KiwiSaver Scheme members, it marks the point where you can access your retirement savings. However, this doesn’t mean your KiwiSaver membership has to come to an end.

Many members choose to keep their accounts open beyond 65, continuing to manage their savings in a way that aligns with their long-term financial needs. At Anglican Financial Care, we know that planning for retirement is personal, which is why we send a letter to our Christian KiwiSaver Scheme members the month before they turn 65. This is an opportunity to start the conversation about your options, ensuring you have the information you need to make decisions that are right for you.

Here are the options available to you once you reach 65:

Keeping your account open

Reaching 65 does not mean you have to close your Christian KiwiSaver Scheme account. Many of our members choose to keep their funds invested beyond this age, giving them the flexibility to access their savings when needed while continuing to benefit from our faith-aligned investment approach.

Keeping your account open also allows you to continue adding to your savings, should you wish to do so. If you’re still working, you can continue your contributions to grow your balance further.

Making regular withdrawals

If you would like to supplement your retirement income while keeping your remaining savings invested, you can set up regular fortnightly or monthly withdrawals from your Christian KiwiSaver Scheme account. This option allows you to access your money gradually, while your remaining balance continues to work for you.

A $200 minimum applies to each regular withdrawal.
The minimum withdrawal amount may change in the future.

This approach can provide a steady stream of money while maintaining long-term investment potential.

Occasional one-off withdrawals

If you prefer more flexibility, you can make one-off withdrawals when needed. This option allows you to leave your savings invested while accessing funds at times when you need them – whether it’s for an unexpected expense, a special occasion, or a larger financial commitment.

A $1,000 minimum applies to each one-off withdrawal.

This option gives you the ability to manage your savings in a way that fits your lifestyle and financial needs.

Full withdrawal

If you decide to take out all of your savings, you can make a full withdrawal from your Christian KiwiSaver Scheme account. This means you will no longer be a member of KiwiSaver.

While some members choose this option, others prefer to leave their funds invested, ensuring they can access their savings gradually over time.

Making the right decision for you

Only you can decide how to manage your KiwiSaver savings after 65. Whether you continue investing, make partial withdrawals, or withdraw your full balance, it’s reassuring to know that Christian KiwiSaver Scheme gives you flexibility in managing your retirement funds.

As you approach this important milestone, we’re here to help. Our team at Anglican Financial Care is committed to supporting you in making informed decisions that align with your needs. If you have any questions about your options, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Bishop Ana Fletcher: A Story of Faith, Resilience, and Doing Gooder

by Chris | 7 Mar, 2025 | Community Activity

This International Women’s Day (March 8th), we’re excited to celebrate a woman who inspires us every day—Assistant Bishop of Wellington, Rt Reverend Anashuya Fletcher, a client and a wonderful inspiration.

Bishop Ana’s journey is one of courage, resilience, and breaking barriers—making her an inspiring figure for women everywhere, especially on International Women’s Day. Her life story is a powerful reminder that no matter where you start, with faith, perseverance, and a heart for justice, you can achieve great things.

From Sri Lanka to New Zealand: Overcoming the Odds
Born in Sri Lanka, Bishop Ana’s early life was shaped by the turbulence of civil war. At just one year old, she and her family came to New Zealand and settled in Auckland, where Bishop Ana’s life as an immigrant began. Growing up in a new country came with its challenges, but the young Ana embraced her new home and worked hard to build a future. Her story is a testament to resilience—the ability to rise above adversity and create something meaningful from hardship.

A Passion for Justice
Bishop Ana’s determination to make a difference led her to pursue a law degree, and she became a solicitor with a strong passion for social justice. She didn’t stop there; lawyer Ana worked with the International Justice Mission, focusing on human rights advocacy. This experience deepened her commitment to fighting for the rights of marginalised people and defending the vulnerable. Her career has always been about more than just personal success—she’s used her skills to stand up for others, to fight for fairness, and to bring about positive change.

Breaking New Ground: Becoming Bishop
Bishop Ana’s journey took a transformative turn when she felt called to ministry. In 2018, she and her husband, Reverend Paul Fletcher, were ordained as priests at Wellington Cathedral and co-led St. Peter’s Anglican Church in Whanganui, New Zealand, building a strong, supportive community. As the second woman and the youngest ever consecrated as the Assistant Bishop of Wellington—Bishop Ana continued to inspire women to pursue their own paths to leadership.

Empowering People through Coffee
Then came the coffee! Bishop Ana and Rev’d Paul helped to found Common Good Coffee, a social enterprise aimed at addressing modern slavery and poverty, through fair-trade coffee. With the catchy tagline ‘Drink Gooder, Feel Gooder, Do Gooder,’ the goal is to raise money to help relieve extreme poverty and modern slavery in India and locally. This initiative shows how business can be a force for good, combining Bishop Ana’s faith, entrepreneurial spirit, and dedication to social change. You can learn more about Common Good Coffee and their impact at Common Good Coffee | Three Times As Good – Common Good Coffee

Inspiration for Women Everywhere
Bishop Ana Fletcher’s journey is an embodiment of what is possible when you combine faith, passion, and a commitment to justice. From overcoming the challenges of immigration to making a significant mark in both the Church and the community, she exemplifies women who lead, inspire, and create change.

When asked what advice she would give to young women today, Bishop Ana shared:

“I have found Frederich Buechner’s statement that the place that God calls you is where your deep gladness and the world’s hunger meet to be true. Over and over again, I’ve had the privilege to work with people and in places that I am passionate about; following God’s call has taken me on the most amazing joy-filled adventures.”

To be inspired by Bishop Ana and hear her first-hand account of how ‘Jesus changes everything’ click here.

This International Women’s Day, we celebrate all the Bishop Ana Fletchers of the world—trailblazers, women with a vision, and living examples of how you can break through barriers, lead with purpose, and shape the future with courage.

Finding Support with Christian KiwiSaver Scheme in Tough Times: How to Apply for Significant Financial Hardship

by Chris | 11 Feb, 2025 | Financial Planning

Sometimes, life throws unexpected challenges your way, and managing everything on your own can feel overwhelming. If you’re a member of Christian KiwiSaver Scheme and are facing Significant Financial Hardship (SFH), we want you to know that you’re not alone. Here’s a step-by-step guide to the process and the help available.

What Is Significant Financial Hardship?

Significant Financial Hardship means you’re struggling to meet essential living costs or are facing unexpected financial challenges. If this sounds like your situation, you may be able to apply to access some of your KiwiSaver funds to help you get back on track. Examples of expenses you might claim for include:

Mortgage or rent arrears that will result in losing your home
Overdue utility bills like power or phone
Medical and dental expenses for you or your family
Essential repairs to your car or home
Funeral costs for a loved one

While accessing SFH funds is meant to provide temporary relief, it’s important to note that it’s a last resort after exploring other financial assistance options.

How the SFH Process Works

We aim to make the application process as straightforward and supportive as possible. Here’s how it works:

Get in Touch
If you’d like to make an SFH application, contact us.
Working with Debtfix
We partner with Debtfix, a registered charity, to handle the application process. Debtfix specialises in supporting people during tough financial times and ensures the process is handled with care and confidentiality.
Complete the online form
Debtfix provides an online form for you to fill out. This helps them understand your financial situation and we also rely on this information to make the final decision on your application.
Support from Debtfix
Once you’ve completed the form, Debtfix will reach out to you. In addition to helping you complete the Significant Financial Hardship application process, they can provide helpful information about other community or government support you might be eligible for. They can also offer free budgeting advice to help you manage your finances.
Application Review
After you complete the process with Debtfix, they will send your application to us for review. We will then carefully consider your situation and make the final decision.
Our Response
We’ll contact you to let you know our decision on your application. If your application is approved, we’ll confirm the amount we’ve approved and when the payment will be made to you.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind

Applying for SFH can feel overwhelming, but remember, you’re not alone. This process is designed to provide support and guidance when you need it most. Accessing your KiwiSaver funds early should only be considered as a last resort, so we encourage you to explore other financial assistance options that are available to you. Debtfix can help point you in the right direction.

We’re Here to Help

At Christian KiwiSaver Scheme, we’re committed to supporting you in your retirement savings journey. Whether you’re facing financial challenges or saving for your future, we’re here to help you.

Please contact us if you have any questions about your KiwiSaver account.

Christian KiwiSaver Scheme is managed and issued by The New Zealand Anglican Church Pension Board (trading as Anglican Financial Care).

National Pizza Day: A Tasty Lesson in Investment Diversification

by Chris | 5 Feb, 2025 | Financial Planning

National Pizza Day is just around the corner—on Sunday, February 9th! It’s the perfect time to get your friends together and decide on your favourite pizza toppings. Whether you’re into classic pepperoni, adventurous pineapple, or something spicier, there’s a pizza for everyone. But here’s a fun twist: did you know your pizza can teach you something important about managing money? Let’s chew into how pizza is connected to investment diversification.

What is Diversification, Anyway?

Imagine your pizza is an investment portfolio. Instead of a plain cheese pizza or one with only pepperoni, think about a pizza with a variety of toppings: cheese, pepperoni, veggies, BBQ chicken. Each slice adds something unique, making the whole pizza more exciting.

In investing, diversification works the same way. Instead of putting all your money into one thing (like a single stock), you spread it across different investments—stocks, bonds, real estate, private equity etc. This helps reduce risk and opens more opportunities for growth.

Why Is Diversification Like Pizza?

Lower Risk, More Flavour: If you only have one topping on your pizza and you’re not in the mood for it, you’re stuck with a pizza you might not enjoy. But with multiple toppings, you’ve got options. Similarly, in investing, putting all your money into one stock is risky. If that stock drops, you could lose a lot. But by spreading your money across different investments, you’re less likely to be hurt by one bad choice.

Finding Balance: A great pizza is all about balance—too much cheese, and it’s overwhelming; too little, and it’s dry. The same goes for your investments. Some investments grow quickly, while others grow slowly. But together, they balance each other out, helping your portfolio to handle market ups and downs.

Taking a More Active Approach: Sometimes, you can take a more active approach to your investments, just like ordering your favourite pizza with the toppings you want. For example, having a direct ownership of investments like forests can be a good way to diversify. While forests may not grow as fast as some stocks, they offer a sustainable option that may align to your ethical values.
Actively choosing investments like these, along with other options, can help lower your risk and provide another level of diversification.

Getting the Best Bang for Your Buck: Diversifying your investments isn’t just about picking random things—it’s about getting the most value. Like when you buy a pizza combo that has the right mix of pizza and sides, you feel more satisfied and are not overloaded on one thing. By carefully choosing where you invest and mixing things up, you ensure a good value, like ordering a pizza in a meal deal.

Why It Matters

Just like Grandma’s advice— “don’t put all your eggs in one basket”—diversification helps reduce risk and increase the potential for rewards. By spreading your money across different areas, you’re better prepared for market changes, just like you’re better prepared for anything when your pizza has more variety.

But remember, diversification isn’t foolproof. If all your investments are too similar (like too many slices with the same topping), you might miss out on the full benefits. You need to make sure your investments are well-balanced and fit your financial goals.

In the Christian KiwiSaver Scheme’s Balanced Fund and Growth Fund, we balance investments across bonds and other fixed interest assets, shares, private equity, and even a forest. We also follow our own Ethical Investment Policy, working to align our investment choices with Christian values, while aiming to grow our members’ money.

So, this National Pizza Day (or any day!), while you’re enjoying a well-balanced pizza, think about how diversifying your investments can help make your financial future just as satisfying. More slices, more flavours, more chances for success!

How we Helped Rosie Secure her Mortgage

by Chris | 3 Feb, 2025 | Personal Stories

Rosie successfully applied to Anglican Financial Care for a mortgage for her first home after returning from an overseas posting. Anglican Financial Care was available to provide ongoing support throughout the whole process by phone and email.