How to choose a KiwiSaver provider

KiwiSaver is one of the best ways New Zealanders can prepare for the future. So, while you enjoy some downtime, we’ve summed up the key factors to consider when comparing KiwiSaver providers.

Investment expertise
This is where the rubber hits the road. Your KiwiSaver provider’s ability to deliver good long-term investment results really matters.

Every provider manages funds differently, which means the returns they deliver can vary a lot. With the power of compounding returns, even a 1 percent per year difference over a long period can make a meaningful impact on your retirement balance.

You can compare providers by looking at their long-term performance – for example, 5 or 10+ years. While past performance isn’t a guarantee of future performance, it can give you an indication of how skilled a provider has been at managing money over time.

There are a range of online tools to help someone see the track record of each provider and the returns they have delivered. Providers publish their returns on their own websites, but for more independent research, Morningstar produces a KiwiSaver Survey every quarter that allows you to easily compare providers after fees.

Active fund management vs passive fund management
Active fund management takes a hands-on approach. The goal is to deliver better long-term returns than a benchmark by actively managing risk and opportunity. This involves detailed research into which companies to invest in and which to avoid. Fees may be higher, but you’re paying for professional expertise.

Passive fund management aims to replicate a market index. Because it’s less hands-on, the fees are usually lower.

Market ups and downs are normal. During periods when prices fall, active managers with cash available may be able to take advantage of opportunities to buy strong companies at lower prices.

Skin in the game
Trust matters. One way to feel confident in your KiwiSaver provider is knowing they’re aligned with your outcomes.

At Milford, we have a policy that our staff invest in the same funds as our clients. We believe this alignment helps keep us focused on delivering strong long-term outcomes, because we’re right there on the journey with you.

Think of it like a pilot flying the same plane you’re on – they’re motivated to get everyone safely to the destination. It’s a similar approach to how we manage our clients’ money.

Transparency and communication
Your KiwiSaver account is your money, so you should be able to clearly understand where it’s invested, why it’s invested that way and how it’s performing.

We communicate with our members every month through our Monthly Review, blogs and occasional updates. Our mobile app and online portal give you full visibility over your balance, contributions, performance over different time periods, and the companies you’re invested in.

If you want to talk to someone, you can also speak with a real person who understands investing and can point you in the right direction.

Value for money
Value for money isn’t just about fees or returns. It’s also about the tools, service, and guidance you receive.

The best KiwiSaver providers give customers access to helpful resources and expert guidance so they can make informed decisions.

Our KiwiSaver Calculator helps you map out what your balance could look like over time, and our KiwiSaver Digital Advice Tool helps you identify your goals, understand your tolerance for risk, and choose the best Milford KiwiSaver Fund for you. You can also access the latest market insights, tools, and investing information via our website, online portal, and app.

For anything else, our award-winning client teams are here to help.

Look at the whole picture
When you’re comparing providers, it’s worth looking at factors like long-term investment capability, service, communication, and overall member experience. Independent awards can help give an external view of how providers are performing across these areas.

Milford has been recognised with eight consecutive Consumer NZ People’s Choice awards (2018 to 2025), multiple Canstar KiwiSaver awards including Provider of the Year (six years in a row), Outstanding Value (also 6 years in a row), and Most Satisfied Customers (2 years in a row), as well as the Reader’s Digest Gold Quality Service Award for Specialist KiwiSaver Providers in 2025 and 2026.

If you’d like to learn more about the Milford KiwiSaver Plan, visit our website or get in touch with our team.