Becoming
an adviser.
Becoming a financial adviser (also referred to as “broker”) is more than just a career move - it’s an opportunity to build a business with purpose, flexibility, and real earning potential.
As a mortgage or insurance adviser in New Zealand, you play a pivotal role in helping Kiwis achieve life-changing milestones - from buying their first home, to protecting their families, to building long-term financial security. The impact you make is tangible. And in return? You’ll enjoy uncapped income potential, the freedom to set your own schedule, and the ability to shape a business around your strengths and interests.
If you’re considering a future in financial advice, NZFSG is here to guide you every step of the way. We provide the training, licensing support, technology, and ongoing business backing you need to launch and grow with confidence.
Ready to explore what’s possible? Learn more below or get in touch to take your first step toward a rewarding career helping Kiwis achieve their financial dreams.
You’ll need to consider the following five steps when you become an adviser and join NZFSG.
Get qualified.
01
NZ Certificate in Financial Services (Level 5) v2.
Demonstrate competence (general & product advice), knowledge and skill.
Education and training providers you can use are:
Costs range from $1,700 to $3,000. The variance in cost is dependent on the education provider, the strands/modules undertaken, and the learning programme (i.e. online, online facilitation, or classroom).
Choose your business structure.
02
Choose whether you want to operate under your own Financial Advice Provider (FAP) or under NZFSG’s licence as an Authorised Body (AB).
Financial advisers under NZFSG’s FAP licence fall under the NZFSG Advice Assurance Framework (AAF).
NZFSG FAP licence cost is $300 per month (ex. GST). Own licence application costs start from approx $700 per annum - this excludes the ongoing compliance costs associated with holding a FAP licence.
Join.
03
Join a government approved industry disputes resolution service.
*A Financial Ombudsman Service
*NZFSG’s disputes provider is FSCL. Our preference is for you to join FSCL if you are applying to come under our licence.
The joining fees are approx $100 + annual membership fees ranging from $300 to $500 depending on the scheme.
Register.
04
Register as a Financial Adviser & Financial Advice Provider on the Companies Register.
You’ll need to register as an individual financial adviser, as well as your company entity (which will serve as your Authorised Body).
The initial cost for both FSP registrations is approx. $2,000 which includes the application fee, criminal history fee, and the FMA levy. You will also need to file annual confirmations (renewals) for both FSP registrations (approx $1,500).
NB: every 3 years an updated criminal history check will be required.
Professional Indemnity Insurance.
05
Make sure you have Professional Indemnity Insurance.
NZFSG offers a competitive Group PI Insurance Scheme to our members.
For advisers under NZFSG’s FAP Licence it is mandatory to have Professional Indemnity insurance (PI) under the NZFSG group scheme. While it is of benefit, it is optional for own FAP licence holders to have PI under NZFSG’s group scheme.
An indicative annual cost for an Authorised Body is $2,000 - $3,000 which includes PI, Management Liability and Cyber. Costs vary based on annual turnover.
Contact us about becoming an adviser with NZFSG.
MyInduction Programme.
Receive one-on-one and small group training tailored to your needs - at a time that works for you.
When you join NZFSG we will guide you through an induction programme to help you leverage our industry leading technology, services and support - setting you up for success!
The programme provides a comprehensive walk through of MyCRM, empowering you to operate safely, save time and deliver the best possible customer outcomes. If you choose to join our Assurance Programme, we’ll also help you to develop a thorough understanding of your duties and obligations as a financial adviser.
Plus, we offer weekly check-ins to answer any questions or provide additional guidance to ensure you're confident with our systems and compliance requirements.
Looking to launch and grow your career in financial advice?
Don’t just take our word for it.
“
The Induction Programme was excellent and Tania is a great trainer. I understood my obligations and MyCRM application's features very well due to this well organised programme.
Amol Prakash
Swift Mortgages