News
29 January 2025
Current retirees need more than spending guidelines
Lifetime Retirement Income (Lifetime) applauds Massey University Fin-Ed Centre’s latest Retirement Expenditure Guidelines (REGs) 2024 for providing critical data that helps New Zealanders plan for their financial futures.
Guidelines less useful for current retirees
Yet, as Lifetime’s founder and managing director Ralph Stewart points out, the guidelines highlight a gap in support for those who’ve already retired without significant savings.
"The report’s an excellent tool for those still in their working years to prepare for retirement. But for retirees who haven’t been able to save such large sums, it raises an important question: What now?"
According to the REGs, even a basic frills-free lifestyle for a single retiree living in the city costs $687.84 per week, well above the $519.47 weekly NZ Super payout. A lifestyle with more choices and modest luxuries requires $768.76 weekly for singles and a staggering $1,739.85 for city-dwelling couples.
Additional income streams non-negotiable
“For Kiwis who want to maintain a comfortable, dignified retirement additional income streams are non-negotiable,” Ralph says.
Our Retirement Income Workshops are back!

“The financial landscape can be daunting for retirees without substantial savings or investments. The finance industry must focus not only on helping working Kiwis save but also on providing effective solutions for those already retired.”
“Continuing to work, even part-time, can provide a significant income boost and reduce the time spent relying solely on savings. But this doesn’t work for everyone and can eat into your retirement,” he adds.
The search for innovative solutions
That’s why Lifetime is dedicated to finding innovative, alternative solutions to help Kiwis bridge the retirement income gap – which led to the launch of our groundbreaking debt-free home equity release product, Lifetime Home, last year.
With around two-thirds of New Zealanders over 65 owning their homes outright, housing represents a major untapped resource for many retirees looking to supplement their retirement income.
"Lifetime Home is a retirement income option for homeowners aged 70-plus who are mortgage free to tap into what, for many, is their biggest asset – their home – to bolster their income in retirement," says Stewart.

Tap into your home equity to bolster your retirement
Home equity release products like Lifetime Home allow retirees to access the wealth tied up in their homes without having to downsize. This can provide a much-needed income stream while allowing retirees to remain in the comfort and security of their own homes.
“Many retirees have no significant savings beyond their home. Home equity release products can provide a life-changing opportunity for Kiwi retirees to really make the most of their post-work years," Ralph says.
"At Lifetime, we’re committed to empowering retirees to live their later years with financial confidence and dignity. Lifetime Home is just one way we’re helping Kiwis unlock their potential for a more comfortable and enjoyable retirement." If you’re keen on learning more about Lifetime Home, simply click here to request an info pack.
Project your retirement income.

Invest with Lifetime for a retirement income managed for living.