How QuoteHub works
The insurance review process in New Zealand is more straightforward than most people expect. QuoteHub helps you understand your options first. Personalised advice follows only where it's appropriate.
No pressure. No obligation. Takes about 2 minutes.
The process, step by step
- 1
Initial check-in
It starts with a short conversation, typically by video call or email, lasting around 10 to 30 minutes. This is a high-level look at your situation: who depends on you, what you earn, and what cover (if any) you currently have.
During this step your adviser will also provide their disclosure information, including who they are, how they're paid, and what services they offer. This is a legal requirement under the Financial Markets Conduct Act 2013.
There's no commitment at this stage. The goal is simply to understand whether a fuller review would be useful for you.
- 2
Needs analysis and research
If a review makes sense, your adviser will work through a detailed needs analysis. This typically covers your income and employment, financial goals, dependants, debts such as your mortgage or loans, existing cover, health and family medical history, occupation, and budget.
Based on this, the adviser researches options across multiple insurers and prepares a Statement of Advice. This document outlines recommended cover types, product comparisons, premium breakdowns, and the reasoning behind each recommendation.
You'll then have a follow-up meeting to discuss the options, ask questions, and talk through any trade-offs. Nothing proceeds without your agreement.
- 3
Application and underwriting
Once you've decided on a direction, the adviser completes and submits the application on your behalf. The insurer then assesses it, reviewing medical history, occupation, and lifestyle factors.
In some cases, the insurer may request additional information such as a GP report, blood test, or specialist assessment. Many insurers provide interim cover from the date of application until a formal decision is made, though this varies by provider.
Your adviser manages the entire process, keeps you informed, and handles any follow-up requests from the insurer.
Typical timelines
Most reviews move at your pace, not the insurer's. Here's what the journey usually looks like end to end.
Timeframes vary by insurer and individual circumstances, including any medical assessments required.
- Initial enquiry to first meeting
- Typically within 2 days
- Needs review to recommendation
- Typically 2–3 meetings over 1–2 weeks
- Application to being covered
- Usually 2–4 weeks from submission
- Total process end-to-end
- Approximately 2–6 weeks depending on complexity
Who you'll talk to
Real advice from licensed Kiwi advisers. Every enquiry through QuoteHub goes to one of our hand-picked partner firms.
Smiths Insurance & KiwiSaver
A licensed family advice firm operating since 1984. Advisers who explain your options in plain English and stay with you through claims.
Licensed financial advice provider
Naked Finance
A licensed Auckland advice firm advising across New Zealand's leading insurers, KiwiSaver schemes and lenders.
Licensed financial advice provider
Both advise across New Zealand's leading insurers, KiwiSaver schemes and lenders. No bank scripts, no pressure. Neither charges for advice; they're paid by the provider only if you choose to proceed.
Ongoing reviews
Your circumstances change: a new job, a new mortgage, a growing family. Good practice is to review your cover at least annually, or whenever a significant life event occurs.
Your adviser will typically check in proactively. These reviews ensure your cover still fits and help identify any gaps before they matter.
The information on this page is general in nature and does not take into account your individual financial situation, needs, or objectives. It should not be relied upon as personalised financial advice. We recommend you seek advice from a qualified financial adviser before making any insurance decisions. Timeframes and processes described are typical and may vary by insurer.
Ready to see how it works for you?
Start with the 2-minute check. A licensed adviser takes it from there, and you decide what happens next.
No obligation. Takes about 2 minutes.
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