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No Stupid Questions with Susan Edmunds

No Stupid Questions with Susan Edmunds

RNZ

RNZ money correspondent Susan Edmunds wants to demystify money and personal finance.

54 - Is a loan on my home the best way help my kids?

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54 - Is a loan on my home the best way help my kids?
Everyone who has kids wants to help them get on in life. One way is to help them buy their first home. But is selling a stake in your home a good way to do this? This week on No Stupid Questions with Susan Edmunds, we're looking at Lifetime Homes, term deposits, petrol prices and why many of us aren’t on track to have enough money in retirement.
In this episode, our experts ask questions about:
How can selling a stake in your home help your kids buy property?When was the last time bank term deposits gave a return above inflation?How can the same petrol company get away with charging different prices at different stations that might only be minutes apart??How much profit do the oil companies behind petrol stations make? And do their margins change much as prices rise and fall?How many of us aren’t on track to have enough in retirement?
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 29 Sep 2026 - 13min
53 - Why do I pay tax on my KiwiSaver?
One of our listeners emailed us to say she was surprised to find out she was paying tax on her KiwiSaver account and horrified to realise she wasn't paying the right amount. She now owes money to the IRD. This week on No Stupid Questions with Susan Edmunds, we ask: what tax rate should you be paying on KiwiSaver, how will it affect your retirement savings, and is there a plan to amend the tax brackets?
In this episode, our experts ask questions about:
How will the tax I pay on KiwiSaver affect my retirement?What is fiscal drag?Should I keep contributing to KiwiSaver when my employer stops?What impact will the New Zealand Super Fund have on the affordability of New Zealand superannuation costs??Why is our wine and lamb cheaper in the UK than it is here?
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.

Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 22 Sep 2026 - 17min
52 - Could I run out of money in retirement and other questions experts wish you'd ask
It’s our 50th episode, and so this week on No Stupid Questions with Susan Edmunds, there’s a bit of a twist! Normally, you send in your questions and we find experts to answer them. Instead, we’re asking the experts what important questions they reckon you should be thinking about.
In this episode, our experts ask questions about:
Is it possible to run out of money in retirement?Should you contribute more to KiwiSaver?Are there any real differences between KiwiSaver providers?How do we solve New Zealand’s productivity problem?Why is income protection insurance a tax deductible expense?
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 15 Sep 2026 - 15min
51 - When can I stop giving money to my kids?
Every parent wants to help their kids with money stuff. And we know that some aren't able to. But for those who can, at what age does that responsibility end? Should you still support your kids through university, trades training and the like? What are the options out there, beyond the Bank of Mum and Dad?
In this episode, Susan answers questions about:
Student loan isn’t enough to cover hall of residence fees. Are there other options?At what age can I stop paying for my kid?How do I set up a financial gift to a child that isn’t mine?Does it still make sense to sign kids up to KiwiSaver?Credit card surcharges were to be stopped this year – what happened to that? Do banks have to pass on the OCR basis increase to their customers?
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 08 Sep 2026 - 12min
50 - Is there any point in KiwiSaver if I'm on a total remuneration package?
If your employer doesn't contribute extra to your KiwiSaver, is there any point being in the scheme? It's a question that gets to the heart of what KiwiSaver is for, and whether some New Zealanders might be better off investing elsewhere.
In this episode, Susan answers questions about:
Whether KiwiSaver is worth it if you're on a total remuneration packageThe pros and cons of investing outside KiwiSaverWhether a 46-year-old is too old to switch to an aggressive KiwiSaver fundWhat to consider when deciding whether to keep life insurance after 65Whether a motel can charge a 3 percent surcharge on debit and credit card paymentsAlternatives to using credit cards overseas, including Wise cards
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 01 Sep 2026 - 10min
49 - How can I pay down my mortgage as fast as possible?
Say you can afford to pay off more than the minimum on your mortgage. Everyone says it's a good idea. But what's the best way to do it? Focus on one part of it, or spread it across the whole loan? Listen and find out in this week’s episode of No Stupid Questions with Susan Edmunds.
In this episode, Susan answers questions about:
What’s the best way to smash down my mortgage?Is it a good idea to have your current account and savings account with different banks.?What do I do in a dispute over the Consumer Guarantees Act?Is there a limit to how much money I can put in my KiwiSaver?
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 25 Aug 2026 - 10min
48 - Who charges GST, who doesn't and why?
Everyone loves a good garage sale. But if you're running one, should you be charging GST on the things you sell? They're all goods, after all. Who actually needs to charge GST? And is there a case for and against taking it off essential household purchases?
In this episode, Susan answers questions about:
Why does my business pay GST when we’re not registered to collect it?Why aren’t we taking GST off our power bills?Should New Zealand issue $200, $500 or $1000 notes?I want to work overseas. How do I balance interest versus earnings on my student loan?Will my bank accept cheese as security on a loan?
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 18 Aug 2026 - 12min
47 - Why have Ooshies taken over my house?
Do you have kids? If so, are they bugging you to get them Ooshies, those tiny, plastic figurines they’re giving away at one of the supermarkets? Or maybe you’re more in the mood for some stylish new kitchen knives, so you shop at a different supermarket? Either way, does giving stuff away for ‘free’ really drive your decision on where to buy your groceries? The answer - and the business plan behind these promos – is all in this week’s episode of No Stupid Questions with Susan Edmunds.
In this episode, Susan answers questions about:
Could solar power buybacks ever become taxable income?What are the pros and cons of income protection insurance?I'm struggling to pay tax on my freehold investment property. What are my options?Can the age of eligibility for KiwiSaver be changed?Why do some supermarkets offer giveaways like Ooshies?
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 11 Aug 2026 - 11min
46 - Do I have to buy that extended warranty?
What should you do if you’re offered an extended warranty when you’re buying an appliance? Isn’t that what the Consumer Guarantees Act is for? That’s just one of the questions that we’re looking into on this week’s episode of No Stupid Questions, which is a dive into some of the niggly questions that annoy people in their everyday lives.
In this episode, Susan answers questions about:
Are extended warranties worth it?Why do I need to declare personal goods over $700 when I enter the country?Why are fuel prices at discount brands different across my town?Can I opt out of biometric account validation?Why do some teachers have an extra tax bill?
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 04 Aug 2026 - 12min
45 - What's good debt, what's bad debt and how do I tell the difference?
Most of us have debt. And we've all heard about good debt versus bad debt, even if we don't always understand what that means or always make a wise choice if we do. But does the good debt/bad debt divide also apply to the country as a whole? Or are there different ways of weighing it up?
In this episode, Susan answers questions about:
Does the thinking about good debt vs bad debt also apply to government debt?Which KiwiSaver provider is best for me?Is the Public Trust funeral fund still going?How much has the cost of insurance risen in the last 25 years?Can I be insured against alien abduction?
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 28 Jul 2026 - 11min
44 - What if you don't want a slice of the AI hype?
Not everyone is entranced by the promise of AI That includes potential investors - and might include you. Perhaps you're unconvinced by the property market? Maybe you can't make your mind up between pumping up your KiwiSaver balance or paying off more of your mortgage? Don't worry. We've got you, because on this episode of No Stupid Questions with Susan Edmunds, we're answering your queries about investing.
In this episode, Susan answers questions about:
How do I de-invest from big AI?Am I better off to stick with my rental properties, or sell them and invest in a managed fund?Should I increase my contribution to KiwiSaver or pay off more of my mortgage?Another investment fund is looking good; should I swap to it from my current fund?I cant see how I'm going to have a comfortable retirement. Help!
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.

Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 21 Jul 2026 - 13min
43 - Who gets all your stuff when you die?
A couple of episodes ago, we talked about tax. Now, it's time for the OTHER certainty in life: death. That’s where we’re going in this episode of No Stupid Questions: making a will, estate planning, blended families, joint property - all the thorny questions about who gets what when you pop your clogs.
In this episode, Susan answers questions about:
Does a child automatically inherit part of a parent's estate even if they are not included in the will? And, if there is no will, does the child inherit?We have a blended family. If my partner dies before I do, do I have to leave my property to their kids?How do I protect myself and my property when making a will with a new partner?What happens to joint property and join bank accounts when one of the partners dies?Is an inheritance relationship property?
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 14 Jul 2026 - 15min
42 - What do I do if things go really, really wrong?
It sure seems like the world is a tough place right now. And sometimes it's hard to believe things could get worse. But they could! History shows us it's possible - and your emails lately show us you're thinking about it, too. So, in this week's episode of No Stupid Questions with Susan Edmunds, we're going there. What do you do if it all goes really, really wrong?
In this episode, Susan answers questions about:
Is my KiwiSaver safe? Like, really, really safe?Can a business refuse to take cash?Have house prices dropped as far as they can go?Can you destroy your money by folding the notes too many times?
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.

Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 07 Jul 2026 - 14min
41 - Would raising the rate of GST affect you more than others?
GST turns 40 this year and nowadays makes up about 30% of our total tax revenue every year. But since its introduction back in October 1986, economists and everyday folk have been questioning whether it’s a fair system for all, or if some households are affected more than others. In this week’s No Stupid Questions with Susan Edmunds, we'll have a crack at answering that. We'll also look into which time of the year is the best to retire (for tax purposes), whether the media talk enough about the long term cost of KiwiSaver fees, and more.
In this episode, Susan answers questions about:
Would raising the rate of GST affect some more than others?What's the best time of the year to retire for tax purposes?Can a tradie charge me more to fix their mistake?Why don't we hear more about the long term cost of KiwiSaver fees?And does solar power make sense financially?
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 30 Jun 2026 - 12min
40 - How long does it take to swap my KiwiSaver provider?
There are some solid reasons to change your KiwiSaver provider. But how easy is it to swap? How long does it take? And how do you know whether you should, anyway?
In this episode, Susan answers questions about:
How (and why) do you swap KiwiSaver providers?My life insurances premiums are increasing. Should I keep servicing them or cancel the policy?I think I paid too much tax on my overseas pension. What do I do?How do I find a good financial adviser?And why does the fee to register your dog vary across the country?
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 23 Jun 2026 - 12min
39 - Things are going well for New Zealand’s farmers. Shouldn't everyone else be feeling the benefit?
The news lately seems to have lots of good stories about how well our farmers are doing. Fonterra's big payout, exports going really well and sheep and beef farmers are seeing a rebound after years of struggle. But there are also stories how some New Zealanders can't afford to buy food like the beef, lamb, butter and cheese our farmers produce. How come? On this episode of No Stupid Questions with Susan Edmunds, we'll go behind the headlines on this as well as questions about the NZ Super Fund, gift cards and even wind power.
In this episode, Susan answers questions about:
How can the economy be good for one sector but not another?What is the NZ Super Fund? What does it do and can that be changed?Do all vouchers have an expiry date?Do you have to accept a cash offer from their insurer?Is your supermarket loyalty card working for you - or for them?
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 16 Jun 2026 - 14min
38 - What's up with my winter power bills?
There's nothing better than a warm, dry towel after a shower. And on these chilly winter mornings, that goes double. Your power bills can go double, too, during these months. But is it really all due to your heated towel rail or whether you keep your electric blanket on all night? Does it really matter if you boil the jug for a cup of tea or heat the water in a microwave? In this episode of No Stupid Questions with Susan Edmunds, we’re looking at winter power bills – and more specifically, what’s adding to them.
In this episode, Susan answers questions about:
Is it cheaper to boil the jug, microwave a mug of water, or boil the water on the stove?Is it cheaper to cook with an air fryer or in the oven?What's the best time to run the shower?What does a heated towel rail cost to run?Is it OK to have my electric blanket on all night?What's cheaper, having the heat at pump on all the time or only when you need it?How do electricity companies set their line charges?
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Mon, 08 Jun 2026 - 13min
37 - Some investment rules are changing. But what is a FIF anyway?
Got a foreign investment fund? Yes? Wondering what changes to the FIF tax rate mean for you? Probably! Good news - this episode of No Stupid Questions with Susan Edmunds is for you! Well, mostly, anyway. We'll also crack into the promise of open banking, selling second-hand stuff on Trademe and the history of the credit card. Hint - they've been around longer than you might imagine...
In this episode, Susan answers questions about:
What's up with the changes to the tax rates on Foreign Investment Funds?Sometimes my interest charge goes up instead of down...shouldn't it only go down?What is open banking, and how is it going to work for me?Is it getting harder to sell secondhand stuff on Trademe?When was the credit card invented?
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 02 Jun 2026 - 13min
36 - The KiwiSaver quandary; are fund managers worth the fees we pay them?
KiwiSaver hardship withdrawals are on the rise. In April, more than 4000 applications were made, with $38.5 million being paid out. On the flipside, questions are being asked about the returns active managers are getting versus the fees they charge. On this week's episode of No Stupid Questions, Susan gets into your KiwiSaver queries, plus a whole bunch of other subjects from our mailbag.
In this episode, Susan answers questions about:
Are there any special circumstances where I can claim more from my hardship withdrawal application??When you consider their fees, are KiwiSaver investment managers actually adding value to your fund?What's the deal with the Australian Federal Budget and what does it mean to us?Is the reported number of unemployed people accurate?Are power retailers being less generous with their solar buy back rates?
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 26 May 2026 - 21min
35 - Buying, refixing or just holding on? Here's what you need to know about the property market
The property market has been a bit boring of late. Prices did drop dramatically after Covid, no doubt, but since then, they have mostly just been moseying along. But boring doesn't mean things aren't going on under the surface and that there aren't questions to be asked. What’s actually going to happen to house prices? And what do you need to know if you’re thinking about buying, selling or just fixing your home loan? So, on this week’s No Stupid Questions, we’re going in deep on the New Zealand property market.
In this episode, Susan answers questions about:
The market has turned against you, but you need to make a move. Should you take the hit or hold on?I have a chunk of change from the sale of my home. Should put it in one bank or spread it around to be safe?I've recently retired and sold my home, but I'm not ready for a retirement village. What are my options?In times of trouble, should I fix my mortgage for six months or longer?Will the next government offer a solar panel package so homes can cope with high power costs?
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 19 May 2026 - 20min
34 - Young, old, or in between, you need to know about NZ Super!
Most of us probably think we have a pretty good understanding of the pension. You turn 65, you get it. Right? Well, it turns out that there lots of little details that can catch you out. We’ve had a lot of questions about the pension (or NZ Super), so we’re on a bit of a deep dive into the most common ones. And don’t worry – this isn’t all questions for the over 65s, so stick with us if you’re not in that age bracket.
In this episode, Susan answers questions about:
If I live overseas, can I still claim a New Zealand pension?Why does the first person in a couple turning 65 gets the sharing rate, not the full single payment?Will the pension still be around when the next generation retire?When I turn 65, do I have to let someone know to get the pension?Which city in New Zealand has the most money left over after paying their mortgage, power, rates, insurance and food bills?
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Mon, 11 May 2026 - 13min
33 - Thrift Podcast: Investing with Share Trading Apps
About a million New Zealanders are using some form of DIY share investing account to build extra wealth. In this bonus episode from the RNZ podcast Thrift, Susan joins Thrift host, Katy Gosset, to discuss how share trading apps work and we meet some fledgling investors.
You can hear more money saving tips and tricks from Thrift on the RNZ website or on your favourite podcast app.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Mon, 11 May 2026 - 13min
32 - Where should I be investing right now?
Where should you actually be investing now? It’s an impossibly big question but on this week’s episode of No Stupid Questions, we’re going to be attempting to answer parts of it in a bit of an investing special!
In this episode, Susan answers questions about:
Is AI any good at share picking?Should I invest in forestry?I want to grow my savings, but also need easy access to it. What are my options?I didn't sell my shares in my company at the best time. Should I wait or offload them now?I've lost the location of my crypto currency! How do I track it down?What's my FIRE number for retiring?What's on IRD's hold music playlist?
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 05 May 2026 - 17min
31 - I'm losing money on my crypto investments. Do I still need to pay tax?
Say you've been trading in crypto currencies. You know if you are making money you need to declare it. But you're not making money. Instead, you're losing it. Is there a way to write those losses off against other income? We all know we should have long term savings and investments. But how much will high inflation mess around with your returns? And are there any restrictions on who can offer a KiwiSaver fund?
In this episode, Susan answers questions about:
If someone was to make a loss trading crypto how does one write those losses off against other income?What the implications are of higher inflation on long-term savings and investment?Is there is a vetting process determining whether a fund is allowed to be part of the KiwiSaver investment options, and, if so, what the vetting criteria might be?Does paying tax on the employer contribution to KiwiSaver almost make it meaningless?Despite all the uncertainty in the world, my KiwiSaver fund is rebounding. Why?And why is the Tenancy Tribunal getting so many applications written by AI?
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 28 Apr 2026 - 12min
30 - We've split up! Is our student loan debt considered relationship property?
Say you and your ex-partner both have student loan debt. While you were together, they worked more while you were the day-to-day caregiver to your kids and reduced your employment hours. Inevitably, their student loan is all paid off. Yours...not so much. Then, when you separated, they refused to allow your student loan debt to be included in relationship property. It all seems incredibly unfair. But what does the law say?
In this episode, Susan answers questions about:
Why can't the government cause a decrease in costs to the consumer by making the big companies take less profit?Why nothing has been done to compensate for or reduce road user charges when the price of diesel is so high.?Is student loan debt included in relationship property?If I don't qualify for the Australian pension can I get NZ Super instead?How long do I have to have lived in New Zealand to qualify for Superannuation?And active or passive wealth managers - which are getting the best returns?
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 21 Apr 2026 - 14min
29 - I need to downsize my house. Is it better to do it now or later?
You're retired, thinking about the next stage and your house doesn't fit your needs anymore. Is it best to downsize now or wait for another time? Speaking of retiring, is KiwiSaver a safer place for your money than a bank account? Where will you get the highest returns? We all know there's a squeeze on fuel supplies right now. Has the quality of what we're buying decreased?
In this episode, Susan answers questions about:
Should I downsize now or wit for a better time?Is KiwiSaver a safer place for my money, or a bank account? Which gives me the best return?Has the quality of the fuel we buy decreased?Are we paying higher prices for fuel that arrived before the war in the Middle East?What is the equivalent minimum wage for the self-employed?I canceled my Life Insurance which automatically canceled my wife's. How is that possible in 2026?And why am I paying more for rest home care when I qualify for the government subsidy?
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 14 Apr 2026 - 16min
28 - I don't live with my spouse. Do relationship property laws still apply?
It's a modern trend; one relationship, two separate residences, couples living apart together. But does this mean they are exempt from property relationship laws? And at a time when everything seems so precarious and unpredictable, why would anyone be considering raising interest rates?
In this episode, Susan answers questions about:
Why are interest rates increasing?Do new build houses experience the same rate of capital growth when house prices are rising, or do they have a bit of depreciation when they lose their newness?What happens to my foreign pension if I come to live in New Zealand?Do relationship property laws apply if you don't live together?Is the government receiving more revenue from the rise in fuel prices?My kid spent up large online using my credit card. How do I prevent this from happening again?And how much have Roblox share prices risen since they were listed?
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 07 Apr 2026 - 15min
27 - KiwiSaver is Changing! What do you need to do? How will you benefit?
Over the six months or so that Susan has been answering your money questions, we've received many about life after retirement - and even more about KiwiSaver. April 1 sees change coming to the KiwiSaver scheme. The default rate of contributions will change, as will government and employer contributions. To mark these changes and to celebrate our 25th programme, this episode of No Stupid Questions with Susan Edmunds will be a KiwiSaver bonanza!
In this episode, Susan answers questions about:
How likely is it for any government to remove the option of withdrawing KiwiSaver money to buy a first home?Should we transfer most of our money to a bank until the middle east conflict settles?Why do workers over 65 still not get paid KiwiSaver by some employers?What is going to be better in the long run, low fees or higher returns?If the age of entitlement to pension rises, will the age of eligibility for KiwiSaver also rise?Stuff is getting more expensive to buy. Why? And what's the solution?And when did New Zealand first attempt a major superannuation scheme?
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 31 Mar 2026 - 16min
26 - If the squeeze goes on diesel prices, who ends up paying for it?
Diesel is a big driver of our economy, no pun intended. If the squeeze comes on diesel, what will be the impact on your back pocket? Is it fair for someone to live most of their life in Australia, but come back here to claim the pension? And who remembers carless days?
In this episode, Susan answers questions about:
Have we forgotten about diesel drivers?Can someone work most of their lives in Australia and then come back to New Zealand to claim the pension?Do church-owned retirement homes enjoy tax exemptions?Can a 70-year-old join KiwiSaver?Why are there hurdles to get your funds out of KiwiSaver when you turn 65?What do you do if you're asset rich but cash poor?Will the rise in the benefit be enough for households to get by?And when did New Zealand bring in carless days? Did it work?
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 24 Mar 2026 - 12min
25 - Can I write my own will, or do I have to hire a lawyer?
You might own a lot, you might own a little, but you probably still need to write a will. But do you have to use a lawyer to do it? There are changes coming to KiwiSaver contribution rates. Who will miss out? And how do donation credits actually work?
In this episode, Susan answers questions about:
How will the changes to KiwiSaver contribution rates affect you?How does the donation tax credit actually work?Why aren't spouses paid to be caregivers?Are there still benefits to KiwiSaver when the government contribution stops?Do you have to write a will with a lawyer or can you write your own, have it witnessed and just keep it in a safe place?What items have gotten cheaper over the last 10 years?And which part of the country has the highest uptake on solar power?
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 17 Mar 2026 - 12min
24 - How will the conflict in the Middle East affect me and my household?
Conflict has broken out in the Middle East – again – and New Zealanders are being warned to watch out for it hitting everything from petrol prices to the cost of food. This week, our special episode of No Stupid Questions is all about how it might affect your household and what you can do to ease the impact.
Episode details
In this episode, Susan answers questions about:
How high could petrol prices go?Will inflation rise again?Will my KiwiSaver balance be affected?I want to fly overseas soon. What do I need to consider?What will be the biggest pain points for households?
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 10 Mar 2026 - 15min
23 - Are the big Aussie banks treating us like mugs?
Quite a few Aussie banks operate here in New Zealand as well as over the ditch. Are Kiwis being offered the same deals as their Australian cousins? If we can peg property rates to inflation, then why not electricity prices? Parents have a legal duty to look after their children, obviously, but at what age does that responsibility end? Susan answers all these questions as well as what's included in tax refunds on donations (and what isn't), how benefit sanctions are managed and which parts of the country pay the highest power bills.
Episode details
In this episode, Susan answers questions about:
00.33 Can we peg power prices to the rate of inflation?4.17 Are the big Aussie banks treating Kiwis like mugs?9.10 How long are parents and stepparents legally responsible for their kids?11.54 Does my employer have to apply the new KiwiSaver increase?12.36 Why aren't admin costs included in my donation tax refund?14.38 And where in New Zealand do we pay the most for power?
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 03 Mar 2026 - 17min
22 - My stepparent sold the family home. I got nothing! What can I do?
It can happen. And does. Your dad dies. Your stepmother sells their home and then leaves all the money to her kids. You get nothing. This doesn't seem right. Is there anything you can do? We investigate your options on this as well asking whether it is worth having a savings account anymore, what the unemployment rate tells us and what it doesn't, and are KiwiSaver providers making their returns sound better than they are?
In this episode, Susan answers questions about:
What doers the unemployment rate actually tell us? And what is it leaving out?Can a stepparent cut their partner's kids out of the will?Are KiwiSaver providers making their returns sound better than they are?With interest rates so low, is it worth having a savings account anymore?How are the new rules around tenants and their pets working out?And what is the most expensive pet procedure insurance will pay for?
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 24 Feb 2026 - 15min
21 - My kids inherit my money when I die. Isn't that too late?
Your kids are all grown up now, having families, buying homes of their own and working hard to make ends meet. Wouldn't this be the best time for them to inherit your money? Have we got the wrong approach to inheritances? Susan has answers for this, as well as what the tax situation is when buying a house overseas, whether financial advisers who are paid on commission can really be objective and what to look out for when insuring your car.
Episode details
In this episode, Susan answers questions about:
00.51 What exactly is the OCR?2.42 What are the tax implications when buying an offshore apartment?5.17 Do we have inheritances all wrong?8.12 What are banks saying about the future of house insurance?10.22 Can financial advisers every truly be impartial?12.44 What you need to know about insuring your car13.41 And is a 1983 car better value than one from today?
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 17 Feb 2026 - 15min
20 - Can my step kids force me to sell my home?
Family stuff can be pretty tricky, especially after a bereavement. What can you do if you're partner has passed on and their kids want you to sell your house so they can get a payout? Speaking of kids, why isn't the cost of childcare tax deductible? Does the NZ Super Fund super proof my pension? And would you have been better off buying a house in 1981 - or Lego?
In this episode, Susan answers questions about:
00.44 What to do when your partner dies and your kids want you to sell the family home4.02 Why childcare isn't tax deductible5.19 Will pensions one day be paid out entirely from the NZ Super Fund7.55 Can a person on a low income afford to buy a tiny home9.28 Whether to invest in Kiwi Bonds or put your money into a savings account12.38 And what the average price of a house was in 1981
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 10 Feb 2026 - 15min
19 - I think I'm being charged more than market rent... What do I do?
Plenty of us rent the homes we live in. How do we know if we're paying more for it than we should? Susan finds out and asks if anyone is making money from your rental bond, as well as how to avoid being scammed when you're investing, and whether your LEGO collection is a good investment or not.
In this episode, Susan answers questions about:
00.55 What to do if you think you're paying more than market rent5.38 Is anyone making money from your rental bond6.49 What happens if a parent dies with no money to pay for their funeral8.03 How to avoid the scammers when you've got lots of money to invest10.35 Why your KiwiSaver account is not being scammed12.39 How to protect yourself from being ripped off when buying online13.34 Why your KiwiSaver balance doesn't count against your pension14.07 And whether your LEGO collection is a good investment
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 03 Feb 2026 - 15min
18 - What happens if I die before paying off my student loan?
More than 600,000 New Zealanders have a student loan. If you’re one of them, you might have questions - like what happens if you die? Does your partner have to take on half if you split? We're looking at this as well as pension questions, tax questions, investing for your kids, and ensuring your KiwiSaver is invested in a way you're comfortable with.
In this episode, Susan answers questions about:
00.55 Avoiding the student loan debt trap2.59 Options for setting up your grandkids' financial future5.53 Why savings can count against an accommodation supplement7.02 How to avoid ethical jump scares when investing9.46 What happens when a working pensioner needs ACC payments10.35 Why tax on your pension isn't the government double-dipping11.55 What the new inflation data means for your mortgage13. 09 When did instant noodles get added to the CPI?
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 27 Jan 2026 - 14min
17 - Can I go for gold with KiwiSaver?
Can I invest in gold through my KiwiSaver? Will I still get my pension if I live on my boat? And what is a disappointment gap?
Questions this week for Susan:
00.54 Can I invest in gold through my KiwiSaver?
02.39 I qualify for superannuation but still have a mortgage. Will that affect my tax rate?
04.31 Can my employer deduct KiwiSaver my from my hourly rate of pay?
07.20 If I live on my yacht, can I still claim superannuation?
08.55 Do I pay GST on capital gains?
10.43 What is the 'Disappointment Gap'?
12.24 Audience Q&A for the week: in what year did waterbeds and wine cooler drop out of the Consumer Price Index?
Expert input this week came from Greg Smith at Generate, Anne-Marie Lockyer at Pie Funds, GST expert Alan Bullot and Shamubeel Eaquab from Simplicity.
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 20 Jan 2026 - 14min
16 - Got money questions for Susan? Send them through!
No Stupid Questions with Susan Edmunds will be back online, on-air and in your feed from late-January 2026. If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or send us a voice recording to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 13 Jan 2026 - 00min
15 - You, me and the IRD
My tradie asked to be paid in cash...will that get me in trouble with the IRD? Where's the best place to keep an emergency fund? And are rewards points really worth it?
Episode details
Questions this week for Susan:
Where should I put my emergency money, in a manged fund, term deposit or just a bank account?
When the Reserve Bank changes the official cash rate, where does the extra money I pay on my mortgage go?
Which kinds of KiwiSaver funds are seeing the most hardship withdrawals?
If I'm paying a surcharge on my credit card, does that cost more than the Hot Points I earn?
If a tradie asks me to pay in cash, can I get in trouble with the IRD?
Audience Q&A for the week: what sort of increase in spending is normal at Christmas?
Expert input this week came from Dean Anderson at Kernel, David Cunningham at Squirrel, investment adviser Jeremy Sullivan and Robyn Walker at Deloitte.
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 16 Dec 2025 - 13min
14 - What is productivity? And are Kiwis really so bad at it?
If you die without family, what happens to your KiwiSaver? Is it fair that a household with one high earner pays more tax than one with two average earners? And what is productivity and why does it matter to the average New Zealander who’s just focused on getting their own job done?
Questions this week for Susan:
00.44 What are tenants not allowed to do?2.52 When it comes to tax, what's the difference between boarders and flatmates?6.03 What is productivity and are we really so bad at it?10.45 What happens to your KiwiSaver when you die?12.07 Is it fair that a household with one high earner pays more tax than one with two average earners?15.19 When the Student Loan Scheme was first set up, what was the rate of interest?
Expert input this week came from Brad Olsen at Infometrics.
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 09 Dec 2025 - 18min
13 - Should I save or invest for my kid's financial future?
A lot of people put money away for their children's future. But is a savings account the best way to do that? And if I invest in the sharemarket, is a growth fund too risky? Do I play it safe or go for gold?
Episode details
Questions this week for Susan:
00.52 What is a capital change notice?3.44 Why do petrol pumps warn you that a hold is being placed on your credit card?5.25 What has happened to my late daughter's Australian super?6.43 Should I save or invest for my child's future?8.29 Audience Q&A for the week.
Expert input this week came from Rupert Carlyon from Kiwisaver provider Koura, and Ana-Marie Lockyer at Pie Funds,
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to try and answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 02 Dec 2025 - 10min
12 - How does Australia pay high wages but still keep prices low?
We're aways reading headlines about how Australia can pay higher wages than us but are also able to sell a cheaper cup of coffee. How do they keep the cost of living low while we struggle? What's Australia's secret sauce? Economist Mary-Jo Vergara says the answer is actually pretty simple.
Questions this week for Susan:
00.44 - How does Australia pay high wages but still keep the cost of living low?
3.03 - What are my options if my religion prevents me from earning interest on my KiwiSaver account?
4.00 - My Visa details were expired, but the payment still went through. How?
6.56 - Why am I being charged a new service fee on international transactions on my credit card?
9.09 - What your landlord is allowed to do - and what they're not.
11.03 Audience Q&A for the week.
Expert input this week came from Mary-Jo Vergara of Kiwibank, Barry Coates from Mindful Money and Massey University's Claire Matthews.
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to try and answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 25 Nov 2025 - 13min
11 - Why are banks so stuck on paperwork?
Borrowing money these days seems to involve so much paperwork. Why?
Questions this week for Susan:
Is private school worth the money?Is it worth getting a second job?Do I have to pay gift tax?And why are banks so stuck on paperwork?
Expert input this week came from Dr Michael Johnson, Robyn Walker, Greg Bunkall, and Anne Marie Lockyer
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to try and answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 18 Nov 2025 - 13min
10 - What do I do if the bubble bursts?
Is the AI boom a bubble? Is it about to burst? What should I do?
Questions this week for Susan:
Is the bubble about to burst on AI?Is it cheaper to rent or buy?Will the Fonterra brads sale drive up inflation?And how do I choose financial advisor?
Expert input this week came from Shamubeel Eaqub, Sharon Zollner and Tim Fairbrother.
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to try and answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 11 Nov 2025 - 14min
9 - Were we better off in the 80s?
Is it better to be alive in 1985 or in 2025?
Questions this week for Susan:
Why can’t we take GST off fresh food?What is gift tax?How do I split the bills when a relative moves in?And were we all better off in the 80s?
Expert input this week came from Brad Olsen, Craig Renney, Shamubeel Eaqub, David Verry and RNZ Morning Report host Corin Dann.
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to try and answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 04 Nov 2025 - 20min
8 - Do I have to use my KiwiSaver to pay for my partner's care?
Is it fair that my partner's residential care will drain my KiwiSaver account too?
Questions this week for Susan:
If I have to use my KiwiSaver account to pay for my partner's residential care, is that fair on me?What is a Capital Gains Tax?How likely am I to win Lotto?
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to try and answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz.
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 28 Oct 2025 - 12min
7 - What is the bank of Mum and Dad?
When money people and politicians talk about the "bank of Mum and Dad", what does that really mean?
If you have a question you'd like Susan to answer, you can email her at questions@rnz.co.nz. We'd love to hear from you!
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 21 Oct 2025 - 11min
6 - Do banks always pass on OCR cuts?
Do banks always pass on cuts to the official cash rate to their customers?
If you have a question you'd like Susan to answer, you can email her at questions@rnz.co.nz. We'd love to hear from you!
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 14 Oct 2025 - 12min
5 - What's going to happen to home loan rates?
There's an OCR announcement soon. What impact will that have on home loan rates?
If you have a question you'd like Susan to answer, you can email her at questions@rnz.co.nz. We'd love to hear from you!
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 07 Oct 2025 - 13min
4 - Why do we pay tax on benefits?
If tax was removed from all benefits, what effect would that have on the economy?
If you have a question you'd like Susan to answer, you can email her at questions@rnz.co.nz. We'd love to hear from you!
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 30 Sep 2025 - 12min
3 - Can I invest my Kiwisaver in more than one kind of fund?
I want to spread my KiwiSaver contributions across more than one kind of fund. Can I do that?
If you have a question you'd like Susan to answer, you can email her at questions@rnz.co.nz. We'd love to hear from you!
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 23 Sep 2025 - 13min
2 - What is GDP and why should I give a hoot?
New Zealand's quarterly GDP figures are announced tomorrow. What even is GDP, anyway, and should I care?
If you have a question you'd like Susan to answer, you can email her at questions@rnz.co.nz. We'd love to hear from you!
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Tue, 16 Sep 2025 - 15min
1 - Introducing: No Stupid Questions with Susan Edmunds
RNZ money correspondent Susan Edmunds wants to demystify money and personal finance. Because when you want to understand your money, there’s no such thing as a stupid question. So if you have a stupid (or not-so stupid) question you need to ask, let us know. Each week, Susan will try to answer it for you. The answer might not be perfect – this isn’t personalised financial advice - but you will get good stuff you can use as you wrangle your money.
If you have a money question you'd like Susan to try and answer, put it in an email or voice memo, then send it to questions@rnz.co.nz
Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details
Thu, 04 Sep 2025 - 01min

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