Are NZ ETFs better than global ETFs?

NZ ETFs provide local exposure and income, while global ETFs offer broader diversification. Some investors hold both to balance local and international exposure.

Can I buy US ETFs from New Zealand?

Yes, NZ investors can buy US-listed ETFs like VTI, SPY, and QQQ via platforms such as Interactive Brokers, Hatch, or Stake.

What's the difference between ETFs and managed funds?

ETFs are traded on the stock exchange and generally have lower fees and more flexibility, while managed funds are bought directly from fund managers.

How do I invest in ETFs in NZ?

You can invest in ETFs using NZ platforms like Kernel, Smartshares (via Sharesies or InvestNow), and SuperLife. For global ETFs, use Hatch or Interactive Brokers.

NZ-Founded 3 Markets

Sharesies Review 2026

New Zealand's most popular investment app. Access NZ, Australian, and US shares from a single, user-friendly platform.

$1.90

Monthly (Investor)

Minimum

Markets

700k+

NZ Users

What is Sharesies?

Sharesies is New Zealand's largest retail investment platform, founded in Wellington in 2016. It's designed to make investing accessible to everyone, with a focus on simplicity and low minimums.

Unique among NZ platforms, Sharesies offers access to three markets from one account: NZX (New Zealand), ASX (Australia), and US markets. This makes it convenient for Kiwis wanting diversified exposure.

Sharesies Fees Explained

Monthly Plans

Investor Plan

$1.90/month

For buy-and-hold investors

Trader Plan

$5.90/month

Lower fees for frequent traders

Other Fees

NZ Shares Transaction	1.9% (Investor) / 0.5% (Trader)
AU/US Shares Transaction	1.9% (Investor) / 0.5% (Trader)
FX Conversion (US/AU)	~0.4% spread
Minimum Investment	$1

Fee Reality Check

For a $1,000 US ETF investment on the Investor plan: ~$4 FX fee + $19 transaction fee = ~$23 total (~2.3%). This is higher than Hatch or IBKR.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Access NZ, AU, and US from one account
$1 minimum — truly accessible
Beautiful, easy-to-use app
Fractional shares on all markets
NZ-founded with local support
Auto-invest feature

Cons

✕ Higher fees than alternatives
✕ Monthly subscription adds up
✕ Transaction fees on top of subscription
✕ Higher FX spread than IBKR
✕ Not the cheapest for any single market

Who Typically Uses Sharesies?

May Suit:

• Complete beginners with small amounts
• Those wanting NZ + AU + US access
• People who value simplicity over fees
• Investors with portfolios under $5,000

May Not Suit:

• Fee-conscious investors
• Larger portfolios ($10,000+)
• Those focused only on US ETFs
• Frequent traders

Summary

Sharesies is New Zealand's largest retail investment platform, offering access to NZ, Australian, and US markets from one account with a $1 minimum. Fee structures are percentage-based, which may be a consideration as portfolio size increases.

Visit Sharesies Compare All Platforms