KiwiSaver basics.

Investments go up and down in value, so sometimes your KiwiSaver balance may drop. That's why choosing a more conservative fund might be a better choice if you're going to need your money soon for a first home, for example. It means your balance is less likely to go up and down compared to a higher growth fund.

Over time, market peaks and troughs get smoothed out. The general trend is for diversified investment funds to increase in value over time. If you have plenty of time before you need your money and you don't mind seeing some ups and downs on the way, a higher-growth fund will likely mean you end up with more money than if you'd been in a conservative fund.

BT Funds Management (NZ) Limited is the scheme provider and Westpac New Zealand Limited is a distributor, of the Westpac KiwiSaver Scheme (Scheme).

The information above is subject to changes to government policy and law, and changes to the Scheme from time to time.

Investments made in the Scheme do not represent bank deposits or other liabilities of Westpac Banking Corporation ABN 33 007 457 141, Westpac New Zealand Limited or other members of the Westpac Group of companies. They are subject to investment and other risks, including possible delays in payment of withdrawal amounts in some circumstances, and loss of investment value, including principal invested. None of BT Funds Management (NZ) Limited (as manager), any member of the Westpac Group of companies, The New Zealand Guardian Trust Company Limited (as supervisor), or any director or nominee of any of those entities, or any other person guarantees the Scheme's performance, returns or repayment of capital.

For a copy of the Product Disclosure Statement or more information about the Scheme, contact any Westpac branch or call 0508 972 254 or from overseas +64 9 375 9978 (international toll charges apply). You can also download the Product Disclosure Statement.