Advice Industry in NZ
What is Kiwi Advisor Network?
Kiwi Advisor Network (KAN) is a business partner for financial advisers. It provides training, compliance support, and technology to help advisers run and grow their businesses.
Their platform, Trail, is a key part of their offering, helping streamline processes and improve efficiency across advice businesses.
Why Aggregators Matter
For mortgage, insurance, and KiwiSaver advisers, aggregator groups provide structure and support.
This includes:
Guidance around regulation and compliance
Access to systems and technology
Training and ongoing support
Without this, many advisers risk overcomplicating processes or missing key requirements.
Challenges in the Industry
Advisers in New Zealand are currently facing:
Increasing regulation
Limited buying power with lenders
Pressure to differentiate in a competitive market
Success is no longer just about writing deals. It’s about service, marketing, and building a strong client experience.
What Makes a Great Adviser?
The key difference between an average adviser and a great one comes down to how they treat clients.
Advisers who:
Go above and beyond
Help with smaller deals
Focus on long-term relationships
…are the ones who build strong referral networks and sustainable businesses.
Opportunities Ahead
Despite the challenges, the industry still has strong growth potential.
Many New Zealanders lack access to quality financial advice, creating an opportunity for advisers who:
Educate their audience
Build trust through content
Deliver consistent value
Marketing, content, and client experience are becoming just as important as technical advice.
Getting Into the Industry
For those looking to become advisers, the typical path includes:
Completing Level 5 financial advice qualifications
Joining an established business or aggregator
Learning within a team environment before going solo
Starting within a strong business can accelerate learning and improve long-term success.
Key Takeaway
The advice industry is changing, but the fundamentals remain the same.
Success comes from:
Building strong relationships
Delivering real value
Staying consistent
As the industry evolves, those who combine advice with strong service and marketing will stand out.