Planning 40-65

A changing stage of life

By this stage, your career is often well established - although that doesn’t mean change is off the table. Many people start thinking about a shift in direction, particularly in their 50s.

Income is usually more stable than in earlier years, and your KiwiSaver may now reflect a meaningful period of consistent saving. You may own a home (either outright or with the bank),  and you’re likely beginning to think more seriously about what retirement could look like.

Alongside your own plans, attention often turns to others. You may still be supporting children, while also starting to think about how you might support ageing parents - emotionally, practically, or sometimes financially. These factors need to be considered as part of your wider planning.

This is also a useful time to reflect on a simple but important question: if income were not the driver, how would you want to spend your time?

For many people, this stage brings greater flexibility. Surplus income may allow you to invest more towards retirement while also enjoying travel, longer breaks, or even a sabbatical if your work allows. 

As decisions become more interconnected, it’s increasingly important that your KiwiSaver, investments, and insurance arrangements remain appropriate and up to date. As debt reduces and net wealth grows, the type and level of insurance you need often changes over time. 

That’s why regular review matters. At Moneyworks, we meet with our Membership Fee Financial Advice clients each year to ensure plans remain aligned, priorities are clear, and everything continues to work as intended.