Life in Aotearoa is full of adventure, from road trips along the Coromandel to weekend hikes in Fiordland. But while exploring the great outdoors is essential, so is securing your financial future. If you’re a young Kiwi wondering how to make your money work for you, you’re in the right place. The key? Start early. The sooner you invest, the bigger your returns can be.

Let’s dive into some smart investment moves that can set you up for financial success.

1. Get in on KiwiSaver

Your Best Mate for the Future: KiwiSaver is hands down one of the smartest ways to invest in your future. Not only does the government give you a sweet $521.43 yearly top-up if you contribute at least $1,042.86, but your employer also chips in at least 3% of your salary. It’s basically free money!

To maximise your KiwiSaver:

• Pick the right fund – Conservative, balanced, or growth. Growth funds can be riskier but offer better returns over time.
• Contribute consistently – Even if it’s just the minimum, it all adds up!
• Check your fees – Some funds charge more than others, eating into your profits.

2. Get Started with Shares

It’s Easier Than You Think: Gone are the days when investing in shares meant dealing with stockbrokers and confusing jargon. Platforms like Sharesies, Hatch, and Stake let you invest with as little as $5. Whether you’re eyeing global companies like Tesla or homegrown Kiwi businesses, it’s a great way to grow your money over time.

Tips for investing in shares:

• Start small and build confidence.
• Diversify – Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Spread your investments across different industries.
• Think long-term – Markets go up and down, but history shows they grow over time.

3. Property

Not Just for Boomers: If you think home ownership is out of reach, think again. Sure, house prices in Auckland and Wellington are steep, but there are ways to get on the property ladder:

• Consider a first home buyer’s grant – If you qualify, you could get up to $10,000.
• Team up with a mate or family member – Pool resources and buy together.
• Look beyond big cities – Regional areas offer better value and potential for growth.

Even if buying a home isn’t on your radar yet, you can still invest in property through Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), which allow you to earn from property without owning a house.

4. Side Hustles & Passive Income

Your Secret Weapons: Investing isn’t just about stocks and property—it’s also about making more money to invest. Whether it’s freelancing, selling handmade crafts on Trade Me, or renting out a spare room on Airbnb, a side hustle can boost your savings.

Ideas for earning extra cash:

• Monetise your skills – Graphic design, tutoring, or social media management.
• Rent out what you own – A spare room, a car, or even your camera gear.
• Start a small business – Sell products online or flip second-hand items for profit.

5. Cryptocurrency

Proceed with Caution: Crypto is the wild west of investing—exciting but risky. Platforms like Easy Crypto make it simple to buy Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other digital assets. If you’re keen to dip your toes in, do your homework first.

• Only invest what you can afford to lose.
• Keep an eye on regulations in NZ.
• Store your crypto securely – A hardware wallet is a good option.

6. Emergency Fund – Don’t Skip This Step!

Investing is important, but so is having a safety net. Life happens—your car breaks down, your flat needs urgent repairs, or you suddenly lose your job. An emergency fund keeps you from dipping into investments when unexpected costs arise. Aim for at least three to six months’ worth of expenses.

Investing might seem daunting at first, but the sooner you start, the better your financial future will look. Whether it’s through KiwiSaver, shares, property, or even a side hustle, small steps today can lead to massive gains tomorrow.

So, what’s your next move? The best time to start was yesterday. The second-best time? Right now.