Why September is the most common birth month for Kiwis

If you’ve recently welcomed a little one into the world, you’re not alone! Statistics show that more New Zealand babies are born in September than any other month, thanks to conceptions during the Christmas and New Year break, when to-be parents are relaxed and enjoying some quality time off work.

While this is an exciting time, it’s also a moment for new parents to think practically about their family’s future—especially when it comes to reviewing their insurance cover.

Bringing a baby into your life is one of the most significant changes you’ll ever experience, and ensuring they’re protected in every scenario should be a top priority.

Why Having a Baby Should Prompt a Policy Review

When your family grows, so do your financial responsibilities. While you may already have life insurance, income protection, or health insurance, it’s crucial to reassess whether your current policies are sufficient for your new circumstances. After all, your little one depends on you, and your insurance should reflect the added financial security they need if anything happens to you or your partner.

Not only does a child increase the number of people reliant on your income, but the cost of raising them—from childcare to education—can add up quickly. Adjusting your cover ensures that these future expenses are factored in.

Life Insurance: Safeguarding Your Family’s Future

Life insurance is often top of mind for new parents. If you or your partner were to pass away unexpectedly, having adequate life cover means your family could continue to pay the mortgage, cover living costs, and secure your child's future.

Many Kiwis set up life insurance early on, but as your family grows, your coverage needs to grow too. Have you factored in the costs of raising your child through to adulthood? Reassessing how much cover you need will give you peace of mind that your family is financially protected, no matter what.

For those considering an update or starting from scratch, check out the Personal Insurance page for guidance on what kind of life insurance might best fit your growing family.

Health Insurance: Securing Your Child’s Wellbeing

Health insurance isn’t just for you—it's for your child too. Children are more likely to need medical attention in their early years, whether it’s routine check-ups, unexpected illnesses, or even surgery. Public healthcare in New Zealand is excellent, but private health insurance ensures faster access to specialist care and treatments without the long wait times.

Consider adding your child to your existing policy or exploring family health insurance options. Many insurers offer specific family plans that can cover everything from paediatric specialists to dental care.

Income Protection: Protecting Your Ability to Provide

With a new baby, you might be thinking about taking parental leave or cutting down your work hours. While this is often necessary, it can also reduce your household income. In these moments, income protection insurance can be a lifesaver, especially if an illness or injury prevents you from working for an extended period.

Income protection cover ensures you still have a steady stream of income to support your family, keeping financial stress at bay. As you take on more responsibility, having a policy in place can help you maintain your lifestyle even if the unexpected happens.

Setting Your Child Up for the Future

Insurance isn’t just about covering immediate risks; it’s also about ensuring your child has the best possible future. Some policies, like life insurance, can double as a form of savings or investment, offering your child a financial head-start later in life.

You might also want to look into education insurance plans that help fund their schooling costs. University and other higher education fees can be expensive, and having a plan in place ensures your child has the funds they need when they’re older.

When Is the Right Time to Update Your Cover?

Ideally, you should review your insurance cover as soon as you find out you’re expecting or soon after your baby’s birth. These moments give you the opportunity to reflect on your new responsibilities and plan ahead. Life can be unpredictable, but insurance can provide the safety net your family needs.

If you’re unsure where to start, consider reaching out to a financial adviser to review your existing policies and suggest adjustments that suit your family’s unique situation. Ready to explore your options? Visit our Get Started page to get the ball rolling on protecting your family's future.

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The information in this article is general information only and is not intended as financial, medical, health, nutritional, tax or other advice. It does not take into account any individual’s personal situation or needs. You should consider obtaining professional advice from a financial adviser and/or tax specialist, or medical or health practitioner, in relation to your own circumstances and before acting on this information.