Over half of New Zealanders still worry about money weekly, new FSC Index shows

The Financial Services Council (FSC) has today released the latest Financial Resilience Index 2025, an annual tracker of the financial confidence and wellbeing of New Zealanders.

This year’s index reveals mixed signals with some signs of optimism returning as cost-of-living pressures ease, while there remains continued concern over day-to-day financial stability and long-term preparedness.

Key findings:

• 55% of New Zealanders - equivalent to just over two million people - worry about money daily or weekly.
• 80% of respondents feel secure in their current roles, however this has slipped from 85% in 2024 and 89% in 2023.
• Only 44% feel prepared for retirement - returning to 2023 levels.
• Concerns around inflation, housing prices and interest rates have eased slightly across the board.
• KiwiSaver remains the top investment New Zealanders have, with 81% of Kiwis enrolled - more than double the 40% who hold cash investments like term deposits.

“These results show that while there’s potential for optimism, many households are still feeling the pinch,” said FSC CEO Kirk Hope. “The data reflects that financial pressure hasn’t disappeared.”

“With KiwiSaver being the primary investment vehicle for most New Zealanders, it’s essential that we re-examine settings around contributions and enrolment. Ensuring people can maximise the benefits of KiwiSaver is critical not just for their retirement, but for the long-term financial wellbeing of the country.

“At present, fewer than half of Kiwis feel financially prepared for retirement — a phase of life that should be defined by security and peace of mind,” concluded Mr. Hope.

The FSC has tracked New Zealanders' financial confidence and wellbeing since March 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic first began impacting households across the country.

The FSC Financial Resilience Index 2025 will be released at an industry webinar on 12pm, Tuesday 29 April, and a full copy can be downloaded here.

ENDS