New Zealand news. A wider perspective.
Asian Insider
Money
KiwiSaver hardship withdrawals have climbed sharply, and a new report commissioned by FinCap says up to half might not be needed if people get expert help first. Here is how the rules work and where to get free advice.
Consumer
A travel insurer has been ordered to pay business-class flights and $5,000 after it told a seriously ill woman in Bali to book another airline without mentioning her medical conditions. Here is what the case means for anyone travelling this summer.
Housing
From today, Westpac will give home-loan applicants a report on a property's flood, landslide and coastal risk. The bank says it will not decline loans on that basis alone, but in a small number of cases it may lend less or over a shorter term.
Housing
After BNZ cut its short-term rates, the big banks' fixed rates of two years or less are now within a narrow range. Smaller and Chinese-owned banks are advertising lower rates.
Money
Revolut has become New Zealand's 27th registered bank. Eligible deposits are protected up to $100,000, but money in foreign currency accounts is not covered.