Investment Calculator
See how your money could grow. Compare term deposit returns against diversified investment portfolios, with real calculations for tax and inflation.
Compare Your Options
See side-by-side projections for term deposits, balanced, growth, and high growth portfolios over 5-30 years.
Real Returns, No Guesswork
Our calculator accounts for your tax rate (RWT or PIE) and inflation, so you see actual purchasing power - not just headline numbers.
NZ Term Deposit vs Investment Portfolio Calculator
Compare your investment options with New Zealand's most comprehensive retirement savings calculator. See how BNZ term deposit rates stack up against diversified investment portfolios, with accurate calculations for tax (RWT and PIE), inflation impact, and compound growth over 5-30 years.
Whether you're planning for retirement, building wealth, or comparing KiwiSaver alternatives, this free financial planning tool shows you the real returns on your investments after accounting for Resident Withholding Tax (RWT), Portfolio Investment Entity (PIE) tax rates, and inflation. Make informed decisions backed by current BNZ interest rates and proven portfolio performance data.
Your Investment Details
PIE funds cap tax at 28% for high earners
Displays confidence bands on the chart
Term Deposit
$125,263
Real value: $93,207
3.40% nominal → -0.70% real
Tax paid: $12,443
Balanced Portfolio
$170,814
Real value: $127,102
5.50% nominal → 2.50% real
+$45,552 vs Term Deposit
Growth Portfolio
$187,714
Real value: $139,677
6.50% nominal → 3.50% real
+$62,451 vs Term Deposit
High Growth Portfolio
$206,103
Real value: $153,360
7.50% nominal → 4.50% real
+$80,840 vs Term Deposit
Growth Comparison Over Time
Understanding Our Investment Portfolios
We offer advice on three portfolio profiles, each designed for different investment horizons and risk tolerances.
Balanced
Target Return: CPI + 2.5% p.a.
Min. Term: 5+ years
Likely Range: -0.7% to +14.7%
Volatility: 6.7% (lower)
Expect ~3 negative years in 20
Growth
Target Return: CPI + 3.5% p.a.
Min. Term: 7+ years
Likely Range: -2.8% to +18.3%
Volatility: 9.2% (moderate)
Expect ~4 negative years in 20
High Growth
Target Return: CPI + 4.5% p.a.
Min. Term: 9+ years
Likely Range: -2.8% to +18.3%
Volatility: 11.2% (higher)
Expect ~5 negative years in 20
Returns shown are before tax. Likely range represents 5-year return expectations. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results.
Understanding Your Investment Results
How This Calculator Works
Our NZ retirement calculator compares term deposit returns with deeply diversified investment portfolios over your chosen timeframe. We calculate compound interest and adjust for inflation to show you the real purchasing power of your future savings.
Tax optimisation can add significant value and will depend on your tax rates and the types of investments used.
A brief overview of tax.
Term Deposits: Subject to Resident Withholding Tax (RWT) at your marginal tax rate (10.5%, 17.5%, 30%, 33%, or 39%). Interest is taxed before you receive it.
Investment Portfolios: Strategic's clients are not traders, so capital gains from NZ shares are tax-free, and international shares attract tax at an assumed return of 5% (Fair Dividend Rate), and the balance is tax-free. (See IRD Info)
Important Disclaimers
- • BNZ term deposit rates shown are current indicative rates and may change without notice
- • Portfolio returns are indicative only and assume that investments are held between 5-9 years and are currently understated based on current outcomes. (Balanced: 5.5%, Growth: 6.5%, High Growth: 7.5% after tax).
- • Past investment performance does not guarantee future results - actual returns may vary
- • Inflation estimates are based on RBNZ targets and historical averages (1-3% target band)
- • This calculator is for educational and illustrative purposes only
- • Not financial advice: Please consult with a qualified financial adviser before making investment decisions
To monitor your investment portfolio, simply connect to the internet. Our online software offers comprehensive analysis, providing you with the peace of mind that your wealth is being managed effectively.
While we manage your money, all assets are held in your name. We advise, and you make the final call. Our aim is to work alongside you, not for you.
Ready to talk?
Speak to a real adviser — call 03 377 8046, Mon–Fri 9am–5pm, or send us a message.