Insurers up and running during lockdown

Insurance teams are working from home to provide their service during lockdown. They're asking customers to be patient and to get in touch online where possible as phone waiting times are long.

Story from Insurance Business Mag: 2 April, 2020

Kiwisaver hardship withdrawals a last resort

If you're under financial stress, check out the Govt support package: www.covid.govt.nz or call the helpline: 0800 779 997 before applying for Kiwisaver hardship withdrawals, says the Retirement Commissioner.

COVID-19: The IFSO Scheme is available

Please contact our free and independent service during this time. The IFSO Scheme team is working remotely and we welcome your questions, enquiries and complaints. Arohanui.

NZ Govt website: Unite against COVID-19

All government COVID-19 updates can now be found in one place, including health, business, community and travel advice.

Kiwis told avoid non-essential travel, return home from overseas

New Zealanders are advised to avoid all non-essential travel and return home from overseas. Contact your insurer but be prepared for travel insurance to be affected.

Story from Newshub: 18 March, 2020

Coronavirus: spike in calls to the IFSO Scheme

People should check with their insurers and airlines before making, changing or cancelling their travel plans, insurance and financial services ombudsman Karen Stevens has warned.

Story from Stuff: 7 March, 2020

Contact your airline, agent and insurer before changing travel plans

As COVID-19 (coronavirus) causes flight cancellations and travel bans, IFSO Karen Stevens urges Kiwis to consult their airline, travel agent, and insurer before they change their travel plans.

Story from Insurance Business NZ: 10 March, 2020

Financial Adviser, Relationship Scam

A complaint against a financial adviser who facilitated withdrawals for a client caught by a relationship scammer has not been upheld by the IFSO Scheme.

Story from Good Returns: 9 March, 2020

Coronavirus: travelling overseas?

Check: www.safetravel.govt.nz and check with your travel insurer, airline and/or travel agent to ask about your cover, and your options, if things change. For health and prevention guidance, see: www.health.govt.nz

Story from Newshub/NZ Herald: 2 March, 2020

Advisers educating clients can help prevent complaints

Misunderstanding is the cause of many complaints. Insurance Broker Kirstin Bridges believes its up to advisers and the industry to make it right.

Story from Insurance Business Online: 26 February, 2020

Winter is coming, chimneys need sweeping

Chimneys should be checked and swept regularly - dirty chimneys can start house fires.

Story from Stuff: 24 February, 2020

Strange pet insurance claims

We can't predict pet hazards. From swimming pools to pin cushions to fishing lines, 10 strange pet insurance claims revealed.

Story from Newshub: 19 February, 2020