As Kiwis continue to navigate complex financial landscapes, rising living costs, investments, and KiwiSaver options, the demand for financial advisers has never been higher. But how much do financial advisers earn in New Zealand? Whether you’re considering this career or benchmarking your income, understanding the full picture of a financial adviser salary in New Zealand is essential.
In this guide, we’ll break down the salary expectations, growth opportunities, influencing factors, and much more complete with visual tables and charts for quick comparisons.
What Does a Financial Adviser Do in New Zealand?
A financial adviser (or financial planner) helps individuals and businesses manage money more effectively by offering guidance on:
- Investments and wealth building
- Retirement and KiwiSaver planning
- Insurance products and risk management
- Budgeting and debt reduction
- Mortgage and property finance
With tighter financial regulations and increased public interest in financial literacy, advisers are now regulated by the Financial Markets Authority (FMA) and often hold certification through the New Zealand Certificate in Financial Services (Level 5).
Financial Adviser Salary in New Zealand
Average Salary Snapshot:
| Experience Level | Salary Range (NZD) |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | $55,000 – $65,000 |
| Mid-Level (3–6 yrs) | $75,000 – $90,000 |
| Senior Adviser (7+ yrs) | $100,000 – $130,000+ |
Median salary in 2025: $85,000 NZD
Salaries vary widely based on experience, qualifications, and commission structures. Many advisers work with bonuses or performance-based pay, especially in investment and mortgage advisory sectors.
Regional Salary Differences
Location plays a significant role in financial adviser income due to demand, client wealth, and local cost of living.
Salary Breakdown by Region
| Region | Entry-Level | Mid-Level | Senior Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Auckland | $60,000 | $85,000 | $120,000+ |
| Wellington | $58,000 | $82,000 | $115,000 |
| Christchurch | $55,000 | $78,000 | $110,000 |
| Rural NZ | $50,000 | $72,000 | $95,000 |
Auckland typically leads due to its financial hubs and high-net-worth client base.
Factors That Influence Financial Adviser Salary in NZ
Several elements affect a financial adviser’s earning potential in New Zealand:
1. Experience Level
- More years = larger portfolios = higher commissions and bonuses.
2. Qualifications & Certifications
- Holding the NZ Certificate in Financial Services (Level 5) is now mandatory.
- Specialisations in insurance, mortgage, and investment planning often boost salaries.
3. Type of Employer
- Banks and large institutions may offer fixed salaries with bonuses.
- Independent advisers often work on commission—earning higher but more variable incomes.
4. Client Base
- Serving high-net-worth individuals or corporate clients can significantly increase earnings.
5. Location
- Urban areas with wealthier populations tend to offer better pay structures and more opportunities.
Career Progression and Salary Growth Over Time
A financial adviser’s career typically progresses as follows:
- Junior Financial Adviser (0–2 yrs): ~$55,000 to $65,000
- Adviser/Consultant (3–6 yrs): ~$75,000 to $90,000
- Senior Financial Adviser (7+ yrs): ~$100,000+
- Team Lead or Wealth Manager: $120,000 – $150,000+
- Independent/Firm Owner: Unlimited earning potential
Salary Growth Chart
plaintextCopyEditYears of Experience | Estimated Salary (NZD)
----------------------------------------------
0–2 | $55,000 – $65,000
3–6 | $75,000 – $90,000
7–10 | $100,000 – $120,000
10+ | $130,000 – $150,000+
How to Become a Financial Adviser in New Zealand
Step 1: Complete Relevant Education
- Degree in Commerce, Finance, Economics, or a related field is preferred.
Step 2: Gain Certification
- Complete the NZ Certificate in Financial Services (Level 5).
Step 3: Register with the FSPR
- Must be listed on the Financial Service Providers Register.
Step 4: Work Under a Licensed Provider
- Newcomers must operate under a Financial Advice Provider (FAP) license.
Step 5: Engage in Ongoing Professional Development
- Continue training annually to maintain FMA compliance.
Salary Comparison with Similar Finance Roles
| Job Title | Average Salary (NZD) |
|---|---|
| Financial Adviser | $85,000 |
| Investment Banker | $110,000 |
| Financial Analyst | $78,000 |
| Accountant | $70,000 |
| Mortgage Broker | $75,000 |
| Insurance Adviser | $68,000 |
Takeaway: While not the highest-paying role in finance, financial advisers often benefit from performance based bonuses, commissions, and flexible earning structures.
Additional Benefits & Incentives
In addition to base salary, financial advisers often enjoy:
- Performance Bonuses
- Commission-Based Earnings
- Flexible Work Hours
- KiwiSaver Matching
- Professional Development Support
- Health and Life Insurance Coverage
Real Life Case Studies: Insights from Industry Professionals
Case 1: Junior Adviser – Auckland
“I started out earning $58K, but within two years I was making $80K including bonuses. Specialising in KiwiSaver really helped.”
Case 2: Senior Independent Adviser – Wellington
“Running my own firm has allowed me to make over $140K annually, but it comes with added responsibilities like compliance and client acquisition.”
These stories showcase the dynamic nature of this profession: while salaried roles offer stability, entrepreneurship can lead to much higher earnings.
Job Outlook: Is There Demand for Financial Advisers in NZ?
Yes—very much so. With increased focus on retirement planning, mortgage affordability, and wealth diversification, financial advisers are in high demand.
Key Trends:
- Rise of digital financial tools (Robo-advisers)
- Demand for KiwiSaver specialists
- More young professionals seeking financial advice
- Increased regulatory oversight creating trust in the industry
Tips to Maximize Your Salary as a Financial Adviser
- Specialize in high-demand areas like investment, mortgages, or KiwiSaver.
- Get certified beyond the basics (e.g., CFP, CFA if planning to expand into global markets).
- Build a strong client base—referrals lead to repeat business and larger portfolios.
- Work independently if you can manage risk and want higher earnings.
- Stay current with market trends, compliance, and financial tools.
Pros and Cons of Working as a Financial Adviser
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High earning potential (with commission) | Must stay up-to-date with compliance |
| Flexibility and independence | Pressure to hit performance targets |
| Meaningful work helping others | Variable income (esp. if independent) |
| Professional growth opportunities | Complex regulatory requirements |
FAQs
Final Thoughts
A career as a financial adviser in New Zealand offers strong salary prospects, professional growth, and job satisfaction. With the right mix of qualifications, client relationships, and specialisation, you can expect to earn well above the national average while making a real impact in people’s lives.
Whether you’re starting out or looking to level up, understanding the full picture of a financial adviser salary in New Zealand equips you to make informed, strategic career decisions.