Kiwiwrap: Self-Managed KiwiSaver for Experienced Investors

Most KiwiSaver members leave their retirement savings in traditional funds managed by fund managers. But did you know there’s a way to self-manage your KiwiSaver and hand-pick your own investments directly?

It’s called Kiwiwrap — a specialist option for experienced investors and financial advisers with balances of $50,000 or more. In the last couple of years, Kiwiwrap is gaining attention as a way to take more control of your retirement savings.

What is Kiwiwrap and How Does it Work?

Kiwiwrap is a self-directed KiwiSaver platform. Instead of being locked into a provider’s pre-set funds, you can directly choose which investments your KiwiSaver goes into.

One of my clients introduced me to Kiwiwrap in late 2024, after successfully managing their own KiwiSaver through it — and achieving significant portfolio growth.

Kiwiwrap vs Traditional KiwiSaver Funds

Here’s how Kiwiwrap compares to the standard KiwiSaver structure most people use:

Feature	Traditional KiwiSaver Fund	Kiwiwrap (Self-Managed)
Control	Limited – fund manager decides	Full control over investment selection
Minimum Balance	As little as $1	$50,000+
Shares Available	Mix of NZ and global shares (varies by provider)	Over 400 options including global shares (e.g., Apple, Tesla, Microsoft, Alphabet), ETFs (e.g., Vanguard, iShares), index funds, managed global funds, sector ETFs (e.g., clean energy, infrastructure), trusts (e.g., Scottish Mortgage Trust), and responsible investing options (no NZ public companies currently available)
Who It Suits	Everyday investors	Experienced investors / advisers

Who Should Consider a Self-Managed KiwiSaver?

Kiwiwrap is not designed for beginners. It may suit you if:

You’re an experienced investor with strong market knowledge
You’re a financial adviser looking to manage your own KiwiSaver
You have a KiwiSaver balance of at least $50,000
You’re confident making independent investment decisions

Kiwiwrap Pros and Cons

Advantages

Control & Flexibility – You decide where your KiwiSaver is invested
Tailored Strategy – Build a portfolio that aligns with your personal goals
Global Exposure – Some advisers have even added overseas companies, such as Chinese shares, into their Kiwiwrap portfolio
Growth Potential – Skilled investors may achieve better returns than in a managed fund

Considerations

Higher Responsibility – You need to research, monitor, and adjust investments
No NZ Public Companies – At present, local NZX-listed companies are not included in the scheme
Minimum Balance Requirement – $50k+ makes this unsuitable for many everyday investors
Risk – Greater control comes with greater risk, and results are not guaranteed

How to Get Started with Kiwiwrap in 2025

If Kiwiwrap interests you, there are two ways to explore further:

Contact Kiwiwrap’s associated investment advisers – they can walk you through the process.
Ask for a referral – I know someone very capable who has successfully helped clients navigate Kiwiwrap.

Final Thoughts

Kiwiwrap offers a unique self-managed KiwiSaver option for those who want more control and flexibility than traditional funds allow. While it’s not for everyone, experienced investors with the right knowledge and confidence may find it a compelling way to grow their retirement savings.

If you’d like to learn more, feel free to reach out — I can connect you with the right professionals.

Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Please seek personalised advice from a licensed financial adviser before making any investment decisions.