How to Start Planning for 2026
Start 2026 with confidence.
Review your finances, set clear goals, and make smart decisions to build a stronger financial future.
Looking ahead to 2026? Whether you're aiming to grow your wealth, reduce debt, or protect your family, now’s the time to get proactive with your money. This blog covers key areas of personal finance, investments, and insurance.
If you’re unsure where to start or want a second opinion on your plan, talking to a financial adviser can give you the confidence and clarity you need.
Personal Finance Planning for 2026
1. Review Your 2025 Financial Position
Use budgeting tools like Sorted's budgeting planner or NZ-based apps like PocketSmith to understand where your money went in 2025. Track income, expenses, and savings progress.
2. Set Financial Goals for 2026
Think about:
Short-term goals: Travel, debt reduction, emergency savings
Long-term goals: Retirement, mortgage, children’s education
Not sure how to prioritise? Our certified financial planner can help you map out your goals and create a realistic strategy to achieve them.
Quick Wins
Build or top up your emergency fund (3–6 months of expenses)
Cancel unused subscriptions and trim your lifestyle costs
Review your KiwiSaver provider and fund type (growth, balanced, conservative)
Use high-interest savings accounts
Investment Planning for 2026
Know Your Risk Profile
Use Sorted’s Investor Kickstarter tool to find your investing personality. Are you risk-averse or growth-focused?
Top Investment Options
KiwiSaver – Check your fund performance, fees, and contribution level
Managed Funds & ETFs – Access via platforms like Sharesies, InvestNow, Kernel
NZ Shares & Property – Great for diversification if you're willing to do more research
Alternative Investments – Crypto, P2P lending, and collectibles (higher risk)
Not Sure Where to Invest?
Navigating the NZ investment landscape can be tricky. Our licensed financial adviser can help you build a diversified portfolio that suits your goals, risk tolerance, and tax situation.
Insurance Planning - Be Ready for the Unexpected
Insurance is key to protecting your financial future. Many Kiwis are underinsured — or paying too much for cover they don’t need.
Insurance Types to Review
Life Insurance – For mortgage protection and dependents
Income Protection – In case illness or injury prevents you from working
Health Insurance – Fast-track access to private healthcare
Contents & Car Insurance – Keep your policies updated
Trauma & Total Permanent Disability (TPD) – For serious illnesses or injuries
Get Personalised Cover Advice
Online comparisons (like Canstar NZ) are a good start, but insurance is never one-size-fits-all.
Our financial planner or insurance adviser can help you:
Avoid policy overlaps
Ensure your cover aligns with your life stage
Find the right balance between premiums and protection
Final Thoughts: Start 2026 Financially Strong
There’s no better time than now to start preparing for a strong financial future. By reviewing your budget, setting smart goals, building your investments, and updating your insurance, you’ll put yourself in a powerful position heading into 2026.
Ready to Make a Plan? Talk to a Financial Adviser
Not sure where to start with your 2026 financial goals?
Our qualified financial advisers can help you create a personalised strategy for budgeting, investing, and protecting your wealth — so you can move forward with clarity and confidence. We’re here to help! Contact us today.