NZ Society of Actuaries

NZSA | Christmas Lunches - Auckland and Wellington
2025-12-09 12:00 - 14:00 (Pacific/Auckland)
Join us for a festive celebration filled with great food and even better company!

🎄 You’re Invited to the Annual NZSA Christmas Lunches! 🎄
Join us for a festive celebration filled with great food and even better company! This is a wonderful opportunity to catch up with each other one last time before a well-earned break over the Christmas/New Year period.
Tickets are $45 per person and $20 per person for NZSA volunteers, which covers your 2-course (or equivalent) meal and first drink over lunch. Any other drinks can be paid for separately at the restaurant.
NZSA volunteers include anyone who has been part of an NZSA committee or otherwise volunteered for the NZSA during the past 12 months. Please ensure you select the correct ticket type when registering.
🗓 Date: Tuesday 9th December
🕛 Time: 12pm to 2pm
📍 Locations:
Auckland: Saint Alice, 1/204 Quay Street, Auckland Central, Auckland 1010
Wellington: A High Dining, 122 Wakefield Street, Te Aro, Wellington 6011
RSVP now to secure your spot – tickets are limited!

NZSA | General Insurance Seminar
2025-11-27 08:30 - 16:30 | Mövenpick Hotel Auckland, 8 Customs Street East, Auckland, 1010, New Zealand
2025 General Insurance Forum: From Perils to Preparedness: Leadership, Risk and Resilience

New Zealand Society of Actuaries
2025 General Insurance Forum: From Perils to Preparedness: Leadership, Risk and Resilience
Date: Thursday 27 November, 8.30am-4.30pm, followed by networking drinks
Venue: Rangitoto Brown Room, Mövenpick Hotel, 8 Customs Street East, Auckland
Forum Introduction
As New Zealand grapples with the increasing complexity of natural hazard risk, climate volatility, cyber threats, and rising cost pressures, the general insurance sector faces critical decisions at boardroom, operational, and regulatory levels.
The NZSA 2025 General Insurance Forum brings together insurance leaders, actuaries, risk professionals, government agencies, and strategic advisors to examine the most pressing challenges and emerging innovations shaping the industry. This year’s forum offers a boardroom-level perspective on emerging risks, in-depth sessions on climate and cyber insurance, and diverse stakeholder views on solvency, disclosure, and the evolving financial response to disasters.
From strategic decision-making and capital management to risk modelling and sustainability reporting, this forum is designed to foster meaningful dialogue, share cross-sector insights, and support better outcomes for the sector and the communities it serves. This is your opportunity to connect, learn, and lead.
Who Should Attend?

General insurance actuaries and pricing specialists
Risk and capital modelling professionals
Reinsurers and catastrophe modellers
Insurance company directors and executives
Government regulators and policy advisors
Climate risk and disaster finance experts

Join Us
The NZSA 2025 General Insurance Forum is where strategic insight meets actuarial expertise. Don’t miss the opportunity to engage with leaders, challenge assumptions, and contribute to the future of general insurance in New Zealand.
Programme (subject to change)
Morning Session: Strategic Direction and Systemic Risk
8:30 AM – Registration and networking tea and coffee
9:00 AM – Welcome and Opening Remarks
Greg Bird, NZSA Vice President
Setting the scene: the growing complexity of risk—climate volatility, cyber threats, and cost pressures—and the critical decisions facing the general insurance sector.
9:10 AM – View from the Boardroom: Emerging Issues for General Insurers
Panel Discussion hosted by Scott Lewis, NZSA Council and Immediate Past President
Directors: Mary-Jane Daly, Craig Stobo and Kate Armstrong
A candid conversation with senior insurance leaders and directors about the shifting general insurance landscape.
Topics include:

Key boardroom decisions in the face of climate, cyber, and cost volatility
Evolving stakeholder expectations
How actuaries can shape strategic direction and improve foresight

10:00 AM – Voice of the Actuary : What’s on the Minds of Actuaries? Driving Change Through Data and Influence
Jenny Parker, Partner – Compliance, Risk, Legal & Actuarial, Convergence
Discover what today’s actuaries are really thinking. Drawing on fresh survey results and behavioural insights, this session explores how actuaries are shaping strategic decisions, guiding organisations through uncertainty, and using their unique skillsets to influence change in an increasingly complex world.
10:15 AM – Morning Tea – Sponsored by Taylor Fry
10.45 AM – Medical Claims Inflation: Where to Next?
Anagha Pasche, Convenor NZSA Health Committee
An expert discussion on the drivers of medical claims inflation—from treatment costs and frequency trends to demographic change and technological advancements. Includes insurer, reinsurer and public sector perspectives.
11.25 AM – Disaster Risk Financing and the Future of Resilience Funding
Nico Pondard, PCRIC, World Bank
A fascinating and personal session on innovative disaster risk financing strategies, including public-private partnerships, resilience bonds, and sovereign insurance pools.
12:15 PM – Networking Lunch – Sponsored by Finity
Afternoon Session: Affordability, Accessibility, Resilience, and the Actuarial Response
1:15 PM – Beyond Natural Perils: Buyouts and the Future of Risk Reduction
Kris Faafoi, Chief Executive, ICNZ
Exploring managed retreat, property buyouts, and community-level resilience planning. How insurers, regulators, and local government can co-design fair and effective solutions.
2:00 PM – Where Are Climate Disclosures Headed? Insights from the XRB and Industry Experts
Dr Amelia Sharman, Director Sustainability Reporting, XRB and NZSA XRB Climate Related Disclosures Working Group
Get the latest from the External Reporting Board (XRB) on the future direction of mandatory climate-related disclosures under the Aotearoa New Zealand Climate Standards. Then, join a discussion exploring the real-world challenges of implementation, what’s expected of insurers, and how actuaries can drive robust, future-focused climate reporting.
2:45 PM – Afternoon Tea – Sponsored by Taylor Fry
3:00 PM – Unpacking IFRS 17: What It Means for Public Sector Entities
Richard Korte, Head of Performance and Analytics and Roshane Samarasekera, Senior Actuary, ACC
IFRS 17 is often discussed in the context of private insurers—but what about the public sector? Join this eye-opening session as representatives from ACC share their behind-the-scenes experiences navigating one of the most significant accounting standard changes in a generation. Discover the unexpected challenges, lessons learned, and real-world impacts of IFRS 17 on public entities that are rarely part of the mainstream conversation.
3:45 PM – Cyber Insurance Deep Dive: Risk, Modelling and Market Pressures
Win-Li Toh, Principal, Taylor Fry
A comprehensive look at cyber risk exposure, underwriting challenges, claims trends, and how insurers are rethinking pricing and accumulation risk in an increasingly digital world.
4:20 PM – Closing Remarks
NZSA General Insurance Committee
4:30 PM – Networking Drinks

Thank you to our supporters
Lunch Sponsor

Morning and Afternoon Tea

NZSA - Informal AA Forum Dinner
2025-11-26 19:00 - 21:00
Next session: Instead of a quarterly half day session, we are planning an informal AA and delegate dinner after the NZSA AGM (private/quiet room, pay your own way).Location – Ortolana, 33 Tyler Street, Britomart, Auckland CentralTime – 7pm

Annual General Meeting
2025-11-26 16:30 - 18:00
Registrations are now open for the Society’s Annual General MeetingWe’re pleased to announce that registrations are now open for the 2025 New Zealand Society of Actuaries (NZSA) Annual General Meeting, taking place on 26 November. You can join us in person in Auckland or online – full details are provided below.Date: Wednesday 26 NovemberTime: 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM (followed by networking drinks)Location: Mövenpick Hotel, Auckland and onlineVirtual Option: If you would like to attend virtually, please register via this link.The AGM follows the Financial Services Forum and takes place the evening before the General Insurance Forum.This year’s meeting will cover progress on the 2025–2026 Strategy, plans for 2026, and proposed changes to rules and subscriptions.Meeting papers and proxy forms will be sent out in early November.Kind regardsLee-Ann du ToitPresident

NZSA | Financial Services Forum
2025-11-26 08:30 - 16:15 | Mövenpick Hotel Auckland, 8 Customs Street East, Auckland, 1010, New Zealand
2025 Financial Services Forum: Innovation, Regulation & Risk in a Changing World

New Zealand Society of Actuaries
2025 Financial Services Forum: Innovation, Regulation & Risk in a Changing World
Date: Wednesday 26 November 2025, 8.30am-4.15pm
Venue: Rangitoto Brown Room, Mövenpick Hotel, 8 Customs Street East, Auckland
Forum Introduction
In an era of regulatory reform, climate volatility, rapid advances in data science, and shifting consumer expectations, the financial services sector is entering a new phase of transformation. The NZSA Financial Services Forum provides a vital platform for dialogue across industry, government, and the actuarial profession.
Bringing together regulators, insurers, reinsurers, academics, and financial services professionals, this year’s forum focuses on the key forces shaping the sector—from insurance regulation and conduct standards to the latest in genetic testing, climate risk, and AI-driven innovation.
Who Should Attend?

Actuaries and insurance professionals
Financial services leaders and strategists
Government regulators and policy advisors
Risk and compliance managers
Data, tech, and innovation specialists

Join the Conversation
The 2025 Financial Services Forum is a rare opportunity to engage with a diverse group of experts and stakeholders, working together to strengthen the future of New Zealand’s financial system. We look forward to welcoming you.
Programme (subject to change)
Morning Session: Regulatory Landscape and Evolving Risk Factors
8:30 AM – Registration and Networking Tea and Coffee
9:00 AM – Welcome and Opening Remarks
NZSA President, Lee-Ann du Toit
Setting the scene: the changing face of financial services, and the value of cross-sector collaboration in times of transformation.
9:15 AM – RBNZ Regulatory Update on IPSA
Annette Crequer, Manager Policy & Regulatory Stewardship, Neesha Morar, Advisor, Prudential Policy, Reserve Bank of New Zealand
Facilitated by Ben Coulter, Convenor, NZSA IPSA Working Group
An in-depth look at proposed changes under the Insurance (Prudential Supervision) Act review, implications for insurers, and the process and path ahead for legislation, followed by Q&A.
9:45 AM – COFI and the Contracts of Insurance Act: What You Need to Know
Jane Brown, Head of Insurance, Financial Markets Authority
A focused session on compliance expectations under the Conduct of Financial Institutions (COFI) regime, and how the new Contracts of Insurance Act is reshaping disclosure obligations, fairness in product design, and consumer outcomes.
10:15 AM – Morning Tea
10:45 AM – Climate Change and Life Insurance: Global Perspectives and Local Impacts
Dr Andreas Armuss, Chief Medical Officer for the Asia-Pacific region, Munich Re – via MS Teams. Introduced and facilitated by Darren Fleming, Convenor NZSA Sustainability Interest Group.
A global reinsurer’s perspective on how climate change is influencing longevity, health, mortality, and morbidity risks—with a particular focus on Australia and insights from other regions such as Europe— and the critical steps New Zealand may need to take. Climate change and climate-related risks—including natural disasters and emerging infectious diseases—pose a complex challenge to human health globally. To remain resilient, life and health insurers must better understand the implications for underwriting, portfolio management, and claims, drawing lessons from international experiences while considering local adaptation strategies.
11:30 AM – Genetic Testing: Opportunities and Challenges for Insurers
Professor Andrew Shelling, University of Auckland, and Fay Sowerby, Chair of Breast Cancer Cure. This session will consider an insurer’s rights with regards to genetic test results. Andrew established “AGenDA” [Against Genomic Discrimination in Aotearoa] and Fay has worked alongside Andrew with that endeavor. AGenDA has called for a ban on insurers to be able to ask for and use genetic test results in life and health insurance underwriting decisions. Fay and Andrew will present their position and then take questions from the floor. We look forward to a session not to be missed.
12:30 PM – Networking Lunch
Afternoon Session: Technology, Transformation, and Emerging Trends
1:30 PM – AI in Life Insurance: Underwriting and Anti-Fraud Innovation
Seema Bangera, Chief Claims Officer at Fidelity Life, Mariette Van Niekerk, Director Trustworthy AI expert at Deloitte and Jamie Auld, Technical Claims Manager at AA Insurance.
A practical exploration of how artificial intelligence is transforming life insurance—from faster, smarter underwriting to enhanced fraud detection. Includes real-world case studies and discussion on responsible AI adoption.
2:15 PM – Reimaging TPD
Mark McClenahan, Head of Pricing Australia & New Zealand and Michael Paff, Head of Client Markets and Product at Swiss Re
Will present about the TPD experience in Australia. Has TPD had its day? In response to poor experience in Australia Swiss Re is supporting a severity based TPD product as a solution to the problem. Is a severity based product the answer? Will Australian experience be replicated in New Zealand? Swiss Re have recently announced they have paused new business activities in Australasia for life insurance until the market demonstrates a clear shift to sustainable product design, an unprecedented step. This session will surely be thought provoking and not to be missed.
3:00 PM – Voice of the Actuary : What’s on the Minds of Actuaries? Driving Change Through Data and Influence
Jenny Parker, Partner – Compliance, Risk, Legal & Actuarial, Convergence
Discover what today’s actuaries are really thinking. Drawing on fresh survey results and behavioural insights, this session explores how actuaries are shaping strategic decisions, guiding organisations through uncertainty, and using their unique skillsets to influence change in an increasingly complex world.
3:15 PM – Afternoon Tea
3:45 PM – Technology and Protection: Innovation at the Intersection
Featuring Neill Law, General Manager Operations, NZ Police Association. Introduced by Nathan Thomas, NZSA Council member
Digital innovation is reshaping how protection products are developed, underwritten, and delivered. This session spotlights the NZ Police Association’s new insurance and underwriting platform, a purpose-built solution designed to modernise risk assessment and enhance the insurance experience for members.
We’ll explore how this initiative reflects broader trends in digital transformation across insurance, including:
– Smarter, faster underwriting through technology
– Customised solutions for affinity groups
– The evolving role of actuaries in platform design and implementation
Join us to see how innovation in protection is setting the pace for the future of insurance.
4:15 PM – Closing Remarks and Key Takeaways
4:30 PM – 6:00 PM NZSA AGM, Followed by Networking Drinks

Social Investment and the role of actuaries - Sessional
2025-10-29 17:00 - 18:30
Social investment is a cornerstone of the Government’s approach to efficiently and effectively deliver and commission social services. It is about better enabling people, whānau, families, and communities to achieve outcomes and thrive, by using data, evidence and different ways of working. In this sessional meeting, Andrew Webber (Chief Economist) and Jenn Dobinson (Chief Technology Officer) from the Social Investment Agency will discuss the Social Investment approach and core challenges the agency is working on, including:Identifying with whom and how to intervene to deliver the biggest impact and value for moneyMonitoring and evaluating progress of social servicesProjecting long-term impacts of social servicesUsing AI tools to analyse social sector spending.We will discuss how the actuarial skillset can potentially help meet these challenges. Event DetailsDate: Wednesday 29 October 2025Time: 5-6:30pmLocations: Deloitte Wellington, Level 12/20 Customhouse Quay, Wellington CentralVirtual Option: YesPlease register to attend. Ngā mihiEvents CommitteeNew Zealand Society of Actuaries

Climate Change Impacts on New Zealand’s Hydrological Regimes
2025-09-30 17:00 - 18:00
Join our Sustainability Interest Group for a session exploring the impacts of climate change on New Zealand’s water systems. With water resources being vital to human survival, even short-term disruptions can have serious consequences.In this session, we’ll present an overview of the assumptions, methods, limitations, and regional-scale findings from a national assessment of climate change impacts on hydrological regimes in New Zealand. This work integrates the IPCC 5th climate projection ensemble for New Zealand with a pre-parameterised hydrological model to assess future water scenarios.Highlights include:– Case studies with some of the challenges associated with the use and interpretation of the datasets to inform water resource and hydrological extreme investigations– Insights into water resource planning and hydrological extremes– A review on expected differences associated with the use of IPCC 6th Assessment results.📅 Date: Tuesday 30 September🕔 Time: 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM📍 Location: OnlineDon’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insight into the future of water in New Zealand under a changing climate.About our SpeakerDr Christian Zammit is a hydrologist with a MSc in small scale hydrology and PhD in Soil Physics (University Joseph Fourier- France). He works for NIWA, and his research interests include developing improved methods for making hydrological predictions in ungauged catchments, understanding the spatial variability in hydrological response through measurement, conceptualisation and modelling of surface water and groundwater flow across landscape and temporal scales, and uncertainty quantification in water resource and weather-related hazard management.

Mini-golf and pizza night
2025-08-28 16:45 - 19:00
We are delighted to invite you to our annual mini-golf event in Wellington and Auckland. Join us for a night of fun and friendly competition as we tee off at Holey Moley, the ultimate mini-golf destination! This event is subsidised by the NZSA, reducing the ticket price to $35 per person, which includes:– 9 holes of mini-golf– A selection of pizza, snacks, and your first drink– A chance to win spot prizes at each locationWhether you’re a mini-golf pro or a first-timer, this event promises to be an evening filled with laughter and camaraderie. Beyond the games and good food, this is a fantastic opportunity to network and strengthen connections within the actuarial community. Whether you’re just starting your career or are a seasoned pro, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Event DetailsDate: Thursday 28 August 2025Time: 4.45pm – 7.00pmLocations:Auckland: Holey Moley, 204 Quay Street, Viaduct, AucklandWellington: Holey Moley, 1 Willis Street, Wellington CentralTo secure your spot, please RSVP as soon as possible. The final deadline to RSVP is Wednesday 20 August 2025. We look forward to seeing you there! Ngā mihiNZSA Events Committee

NZSA - Actuarial Career Path Ways
2025-08-13 16:45 - 19:00
Discover the Pathways to a Successful Actuarial Career!The NZSA is excited to announce the return of our Career Pathways event for Wellington! It’s been a while since our last one, and we’re thrilled to bring it back this year. This will provide aspiring actuaries with valuable insights into the various career opportunities within the actuarial field.Event Details:Date: Tuesday, 13 August 2025Venue: Chubb Life office, Floor 22, 100 Willis Street, Wellington Central, Wellington 6011 Time: 4.45-7pmDrinks and nibbles will be served after the speakers’ presentation and Q&A sessionWe have three exciting presentations from our speakers, who include: Richard KorteManager Actuarial Monitoring & Insight | ACC Richard has been the Manager of ACC’s Actuarial Monitoring & Insights team for over seven years. The team produces the annual financial condition report, monitors claim performance and the impact this has on the Outstanding Claims Liability, reviews injury prevention programme performance and collaborates across the organisation on rehabilitation initiatives. During his time at ACC he has also provided advice on the design and implementation on what was the New Zealand Income Insurance Scheme initiative. Prior to joining ACC Richard has worked in consulting, life and health insurance in both New Zealand and the UK. He is a strong advocate that the story behind the numbers is clearly communicated and understood in order to make better business decisions. Richard is a Fellow of the New Zealand Society of Actuaries and the UK Institute of Actuaries. In his spare time he enjoys spending time on mountain bike and ski trails knowing all injuries will be covered by the ‘no fault’ ACC scheme. Marinda DeanActuary | Pricing and Experience Investigations | Chubb Life NZ Marinda Dean is an “outlier” actuary with an unconventional career journey. A graduate of the University of Pretoria, South Africa, with a Bachelor of Commerce degree in Actuarial Science, Marinda began her actuarial career at SANLAM in Cape Town. She later moved to the UK, where she worked for Abbey Life (part of the Lloyds TSB Group) and qualified as a Fellow of the Institute of Actuaries during this time. Her professional experience spans pricing, marketing, project management, and corporate development within the life insurance sector. After a significant detour into “wider fields,” Marinda has recently returned to an actuarial role with the pricing team at Chubb Life NZ. Marinda is an active member of the New Zealand Society of Actuaries (NZSA) and has contributed to various volunteer committees, including the Blenheim Conference Committee and the Natural Hazards Committee. She is currently part of a working group supporting the External Reporting Board (XRB) in developing guidance for quantifying climate-related risks and opportunities for climate-related disclosures. Passionate about understanding climate change, Marinda is particularly interested in how actuarial skills can be applied to help society manage risks and develop adaptation strategies. She is also focused on how climate change impacts the provision and pricing of insurance. To deepen her expertise, she recently completed the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries’ Climate Risks and Sustainability course. Daniel StonerPrincipal | Taylor Fry Dan has more than 20 years’ actuarial experience in the government social sector, banking and superannuation. He began his career at Mercer in the UK before migrating to NZ and has since worked for Westpac, the Ministry of Social Development and Taylor Fry. When he is not working, Dan is either spending time with his family or out running or cycling under the illusion that he can go as fast as he could 20 years ago! Register by 11 August 2025 We look forward to seeing you there! NZSA Student Committee

NZSA | Presidential Sessional, Winter Dinner and Awards - Wellington
2025-07-29 16:30 - 21:00
We’re thrilled to welcome Win-Li Toh, President of the Actuaries Institute and Elayne Grace, CEO Actuaries Institute, joining us alongside NZSA President Lee-Ann du Toit and NZSA Chief Executive Helen Mexted. Together, we’ll share insights into key trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the actuarial profession.The format of the event:

4.30-5.30pm: Joint presentations by NZSA and the Actuaries Institute
5.30-6.30pm: Drinks and canapés
6.40-8.45pm: Winter Dinner and Awards (Apache, Wgtn)

Members can register for one, two or all three parts of the evening – please choose the appropriate ticket type and location.

Dinner tickets are $70 for members, including welcome drinks and a two-course meal. Additional beverages can be purchased at the venue. Partners are warmly invited to join us for dinner, and partner tickets are $85.This is a wonderful opportunity to hear from leaders of the New Zealand and Australian actuarial communities, celebrate members’ outstanding contributions, and reconnect with your peers.
We’re delighted to partner with the Actuaries Institute, and we look forward to an evening that’s both informative and enjoyable.
We look forward to welcoming you!

NZSA | Presidential Sessional, Winter Dinner and Awards - Auckland
2025-07-28 16:30 - 21:00
We’re thrilled to welcome Win-Li Toh, President of the Actuaries Institute and Elayne Grace, CEO Actuaries Institute, joining us alongside NZSA President Lee-Ann du Toit and NZSA Chief Executive Helen Mexted. Together, we’ll share insights into key trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the actuarial profession.
The format of the event:

4.30-5.30pm: Joint presentations by NZSA and the Actuaries Institute
5.30-6.30pm: Drinks and canapés
6.40-8.45pm: Winter Dinner and Awards (Café Hanoi, Ackd)

Members can register for one, two or all three parts of the evening – please choose the appropriate ticket type and location.

Dinner tickets are $70 for members, including welcome drinks and a two-course meal. Additional beverages can be purchased at the venue. Partners are warmly invited to join us for dinner, and partner tickets are $85.
This is a wonderful opportunity to hear from leaders of the New Zealand and Australian actuarial communities, celebrate members’ outstanding contributions, and reconnect with your peers.
We’re delighted to partner with the Actuaries Institute, and we look forward to an evening that’s both informative and enjoyable.
We look forward to welcoming you!

RIIG Webinar on the new Navigator tool
2025-07-17 17:00 - 18:00
Join Alison O’Connell and Ian Perera of the Retirement Income Interest Group (RIIG) and Jason Gambitsis, Digital Platforms Lead and Tom Hartmann, Personal Finance Lead of Te Ara Ahunga Ora Retirement Commission (TAAO) to discuss the RIIG/TAAO partnership to develop the new Sorted Retirement Navigator tool. Learn about the latest step on RIIG’s journey to develop a retirement drawdown framework to help New Zealanders planning or already in the decumulation phase. After first publishing drawdown Rules of Thumb in 2017, and a framework for successful drawdown policy in 2021, then looking at KiwiSaver balances in 2022 and updating the Rules of Thumb in 2023, RIIG were thrilled that TAAO set about bringing their work to life in a new tool on the Sorted website. At the webinar you will be able to:Hear more about the challenges and learnings from developing actuarial theory into a practical tool for all New Zealanders.See how the tool works, and feedback ideas for further development. Webinar date: 17 July 2025Time: 5-6pm Register now to secure your place at this webinar. This is an exciting new showcasing of actuarial work in the wider world, and there is a lot to learn from this example!

NZSA | Exam celebration drinks!
2025-07-08
Join the NZSA Student Committee for a relaxed evening of drinks and good company as we celebrate (or commiserate) the April exam results! Whether you’re toasting success or just glad it’s over, come connect with fellow students and unwind.
These events will be held on 8 July for both Auckland and Wellington.
Auckland
8 July 2025 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Venue: Mr Murdoch’s – Level 1/16 Fort Street, Auckland Central, Auckland 1010
Wellington
8 July 2025 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Venue: Huxleys – 34 Bowen Street, Pipitea, Wellington.
Please RSVP to confirm your attendance and select the correct ticket for your location.

NZSA | AA Forum event
2025-06-25 08:30 - 16:30 | Mövenpick Hotel Auckland, 8 Customs Street East, Auckland, 1010, New Zealand
Registrations close on Tuesday 17 June.

The event is aimed at AAs and their delegates however is open to all NZSA members, including those who work closely with AAs, aspiring AAs, and those who want to be informed about the issues and challenges facing licensed New Zealand insurance companies. The forum is also open to government agencies, regulators, and directors and executives working in the insurance industry, and industry bodies.
When: Wednesday 25 June, 8.30am to 4.30pm, with networking drinks to finish
Where: Movenpick Hotel, 8 Customs Street East, Auckland CBD
Who: AAs and delegates, NZSA members, government agencies, regulators, directors and executives of licensed NZ insurers, industry bodies
Registration includes all forum sessions, coffee on arrival, full day catering, and networking drinks and canapés.
Featuring the day’s programme
We’ve pulled together a compelling range of senior government, regulatory, industry and Appointed Actuary presenters. In addition, we have breakout time for General, and Health and Life Appointed Actuaries, concluding in a panel discussion where common and unique issues and solutions will be canvassed.

9.00am-9.15am
Welcome, purpose of the Forum and this session, introduction to programme and speakers Lee-Ann du Toit, NZSA President and Chief Actuary of Chubb Life
The President will open the forum by introducing the programme and reflecting on the critical importance of the Appointed Actuary role, weaving in her own recent experience as the newly appointed AA at Chubb Life to illustrate the evolving challenges and responsibilities of the position.

9.15am-9.30am

Perspective on trends, risks, and priorities across the financial and insurance sectors Scott McKinnon, Director of Specialist Supervision, RBNZ
Scott will share his observations on the insurance sector’s current landscape, outlining the Reserve Bank’s supervisory approach and clarifying the complementary roles of Appointed Actuaries and Boards in maintaining robust governance and financial stability.

9.30am-10.00am
Enterprise Risk Management Insights. Heting Yang, Member NZSA’s ERM Committee.
Heting will present findings from the Society’s 2025 Enterprise Risk Management survey, highlighting the current and emerging critical risks identified by actuaries and chief risk officers across various sectors and discussing their implications for strategic risk management and future risk management practices.

10.00am-11.00am
FMA Update. Jane Brown, Head of Insurance, Davide Ambrosio and Sadia Ubed, Senior Advisers Insurance, and Nicolette Woolford, Senior Adviser Climate Related Disclosures, will provide an update on Conduct of Financial Institutions (COFI), its planned Weather Events report, the Contracts of Insurance Act and Climate Related Disclosures.

11.00am
Morning tea break

11.20am- 12.00pm
Director’s and Officers’ Session. Governance perspectives on industry challenges, risk management and increasing influence in the boardroom David Flacks, Suncorp New Zealand, David Whyte, Provident Insurance and Angela Dixon.
This panel discussion will feature experienced insurance company directors, including the Chairs of Suncorp New Zealand, David Flacks and Provident Insurance David Whyte, who will share their perspectives on current industry risks, governance responses, and how they leverage Appointed Actuaries in navigating these challenges effectively. They’ll also provide views on how actuaries can increase their influence in the boardroom.

12.00pm-12.30pm
Panel Discussion – regulators and industry leads; topics of strategic importance Facilitated by Greg Bird
The session will feature a panel of senior industry and regulatory leaders who will identify and discuss the sector’s most pressing challenges. This will be followed by focused presentations where the leaders will outline strategic priorities and specific response initiatives to address these critical issues.

12.30pm-1.30pm
FMA CEO overview Samantha Barrass Chief Executive, FMA
Samantha Barrass, Chief Executive will provide an update on the FMA’s priorities for the year ahead

1.30pm-2.30pm
Lunch

2.30pm-3.00pm
ICNZ Update Industry developments and challenges, strategic priorities, policy and advocacy update Kris Faafoi Chief Executive ICNZ
Kris will outline the ICNZ strategic priorities for strengthening sector resilience and sustainability and provide insights into the ICNZ’s current policy and advocacy initiatives.

3.00pm-3.30pm
FSC update Industry developments and challenges, strategic priorities, policy and advocacy update Kirk Hope Chief Executive FSC
Kirk will discuss how the FSC is responding to some of the strategic challenges faced by the Life and Health insurance sectors

3.30pm-4.20pm
Breakout session on Appointed Actuary and industry topics
To conclude the forum, interactive breakout sessions will allow participants to delve deeper into key themes through sector-specific discussions (Life, General Insurance, Health, and Industry/Regulatory perspectives) under Chatham House rules, fostering candid exchange of ideas before reconvening to share collective insights and actionable takeaways with the wider audience.

4.20pm-4.30pm
Closing comments and key takeaways

4.30pm-5.30pm
Networking drinks and canapés

Thank you to our supporters
Morning and Afternoon Tea Partner

NZSA | Professional Skills Training event - Auckland
2025-05-21 17:00 - 18:00 | AIA House, Smales Farm, 74 Taharoto Road, Takapuna, Auckland, New Zealand
We are delighted to invite all members to our first NZSA professionalism skills training events for 2025

These in-person workshops are brought to you by two experienced actuaries and will help you to meet the professionalism components of your CPD. Dayle and Richard will use IFoA training materials and cover the professionalism requirements you need to meet under the NZSA Code of Conduct.
🗓 Date: Tuesday 21 May
🕛 Time: 5.00pm – 6.00pm
📍 Location: AIA House, Smales Farm, 74 Taharoto Road, Takapuna, Auckland
About the facilitator:
Dayle Noonan is an IFoA qualified actuary . He has spent most of his career in the UK working for life insurers and reinsurers. Now back in NZ, he is currently at AIA working in the Capital team.
We look forward to seeing you there!

NZSA | Professional Skills Training event - Wellington
2025-05-20 17:00 - 18:00 | ACC, Justice Centre, 19 Aitken Street, Wellington, New Zealand
We are delighted to invite all members to our first NZSA professionalism skills training events for 2025

These in-person workshops are brought to you by two experienced actuaries and will help you to meet the professionalism components of your CPD. Dayle and Richard will use IFoA training materials and cover the professionalism requirements you need to meet under the NZSA Code of Conduct.
🗓 Date: Tuesday 20 May
🕛 Time: 5.00pm – 6.00pm
📍 Location: ACC Justice Centre, 19 Aitken Street, Wellington.
About the facilitator:
Richard Korte is an IFoA qualified actuary. He has spent his career working for life insurers, health insurers, social insurers and consulting in both NZ and UK. He is currently at ACC doing his best to ensure the scheme remains financially sustainable for future generations.
We look forward to seeing you there!

NZSA | Applying the new interim solvency standard
2025-05-07 11:00 - 12:00
We would like to invite members to an interactive session to discuss experiences with preparing the solvency return under ISS2 for the first time.

Following the recent introduction of the new 2nd amendment to the interim solvency standard we would like to invite members to an interactive session to discuss experiences with preparing the solvency return under ISS2 for the first time.
Members currently preparing returns will discuss how they are applying the standard across Life/Health and GI. We will then open for questions and discussion.
What: Interactive working session
When: 11am (NZT), Wednesday 7 May
This will be conducted under the Chatham House Rule*
We look forward to seeing you there.
*Under the Chatham House Rule, anyone who comes to a meeting is free to use information from the discussion, but is not allowed to reveal who made any particular comment. It is designed to increase openness of discussion.

NZSA | Member Sessional Wellington
2025-04-09 17:00 - 19:00
The NZSA Council would like to invite you to our first member sessional for the year

The sessional’s will be a presentation on our 2025 strategy and ongoing strategic initiatives to lead our profession.
This will include:

Council update on our strategy and strategic priorities for 2025
Topline results from our member survey
Financial update and refocus post AGM held in November 2024
What you can expect to see over the year
Discussion and Q&A
Drinks and networking

We’re also keen to hear what discussion items you’d like us to cover – please send topics to society@actuaries.org.nz by 21 March.
Location: PwC, The Sandbox – Level 2, PwC Centre, 10 Waterloo Quay, Pipitea, Wellington. Guests to come to level 4 reception, before being led down to level 2.
Please register below and we look forward to seeing you there! It is critically important for Council members to hear and discuss all the different perspectives and include these views as we continue to modernise our society together and make financial sense of the future in New Zealand.

NZSA | Member Sessional Auckland (incl virtual option)
2025-04-08 17:00 - 19:00
The NZSA Council would like to invite you to our first member sessional for the year

The sessional’s will be a presentation on our 2025 strategy and ongoing strategic initiatives to lead our profession.
This will include:

Council update on our strategy and strategic priorities for 2025
Topline results from our member survey
Financial update and refocus post AGM held in November 2024
What you can expect to see over the year
Discussion and Q&A
Drinks and networking

We’re also keen to hear what discussion items you’d like us to cover – please send topics to society@actuaries.org.nz by 21 March.
Location: KPMG, Boardroom 1 and 3, 18 Viaduct Harbour Avenue, Auckland.
Please register below and we look forward to seeing you there! It is critically important for Council members to hear and discuss all the different perspectives and include these views as we continue to modernise our society together and make financial sense of the future in New Zealand.

NZSA | Actuarial Career Pathways
2025-03-18 18:00 - 20:00 | PwC Auckland, Chubb Wellington
The NZSA is excited to announce the return of our Career Pathways event.

Discover the Pathways to a Successful Actuarial Career
It’s been a while since our last one, and we’re thrilled to bring it back this year. This will provide aspiring actuaries with valuable insights into the various career opportunities within the actuarial field.
Event Details

Auckland Event 📅 Date: Tuesday, 18 March 📍 Venue: PwC 🕒 Time: 6pm
Wellington Event 📅 Postponed – new date coming soon.

Highlights

Hear from experienced actuaries about their career paths.
Engage in an interactive Q&A session.
Network with fellow aspiring actuaries.

Register now to secure your spot.
We look forward to seeing you there!

NZSA | Webinar 2024 conference series: Strong Towns, 12 March
2025-03-12 17:00 - 18:00
Please join presenter Adam Follington, for a one-hour deep dive into his popular 2024 conference presentation, Strong Towns, and conference Convenor and member of the Sustainability Interest Group Shami Shearer who will introduce Adam and facilitate a Q&A session at the end.

This presentation will introduce the philosophy of “Strong Towns”, an increasingly popular non-political movement, aimed at encouraging more sustainable urban development and answer some of the key questions facing our society today:

Why are our cities slowly going broke?
Why do we have a housing crisis?
Why are we so car-dependent?

About the webinar
Strong Towns argues that recent city growth has been a great “suburban experiment”, driven by the rise of the motorcar and exacerbated by perverse financial incentives and strict zoning laws. This had led us into a form of suburban development which is placing a tremendous strain on city finances, as they must maintain their ever increasing (and slowly deteriorating) infrastructure. Most councils are under severe financial pressure and contemplating large rate increases.
Some of the things we will cover in this presentation are:

How cities grew sustainably and sensibly for centuries
Why the motorcar and the rise of suburbs changed this and led to a great ”suburban experiment”
How this experiment is fuelled by perverse financial incentives – the “growth Ponzi scheme”
Why this is slowly sending our councils and cities broke
How it leads to multiple other issues including the housing crisis and congestion
Re-thinking the purpose of streets – from a transport medium to a tax-raising mechanism
The difference between streets and roads and the danger of ‘stroads’

These problems can be remedied however it requires new ways of thinking and challenging the existing perverse incentives and norms. It won’t be easy, and the solutions will be controversial.
It also suggests a very practical and pragmatic way to approach some of today’s major issues, which can often feel overwhelming and somewhat nebulous (e.g. climate change, intergenerational equity, housing, insurance climate risk mitigation). Strong Towns shows that these issues have partly arisen because we have simply ‘forgotten the basics’ and broken the financial links between a city’s costs and revenues.
At its heart, Strong Towns is also a belief in common-sense long-term financial management. For that reason, it lends itself well to actuarial analysis. We will explore how actuaries could play a useful role in this area.
More about our presenter
Adam Follington, who leads Quantium’s New Zealand operations, discovered his passion for Strong Towns principles while exploring his city by e-bike. His data-driven background as an actuary complements his advocacy for creating more resilient, financially sustainable communities. In addition to serving as Appointed Actuary to two New Zealand insurers, Adam brings both analytical expertise and practical experience to discussions about transforming our cities into more liveable, economically vibrant spaces.

NZSA | Webinar 2024 conference series: Actuaries engagement with global climate organisations, 25 February
2025-02-25 17:00 - 18:00
Please join presenter Rade Musulin for a one-hour discussion of the International Actuarial Association’s work to engage with global climate organizations. Convenor and member of the Sustainability Interest Group Darren Fleming, will introduce Rade and facilitate a Q&A session at the end.

This presentation will review the recent formation of the IAA’s Climate and Sustainability Committee and its planned work with various supranational organizations like the IPCC, UNEP, UNDP, SIF, PSI, and PCAF (an acronym guide will be provided in the session). It will also cover COP29, which Rade attended as the representative of the global actuarial profession. It will address some key questions facing the actuarial profession on climate and sustainability:

What is the IAA’s vision for the new committee?
What was learned at COP29 and how can actuaries participate in mitigation and adaptation?
How will recent geopolitical developments, such as the recent US election, affect this?

About the webinar
Actuarial organizations around the world have been ramping up their capabilities in climate and sustainability. This reflects the growing opportunities for actuaries to work on a wide range of projects in this area. The IAA, as the global entity representing actuarial associations like the NZSA, has been building capabilities for many years in this space. Our speaker, Rade Musulin, has been involved in climate issues in the IAA for almost 15 years, and has been appointed Chair of the IAA’s new Climate and Sustainability Committee.
Rade will give the attendees an overview of the IAA’s recent work and plans for the next year.
The webinar will then focus on COP29. Rade represented the IAA at the three most recent COPs in Egypt, the UAE, and Azerbaijan. He will provide an overview of things relevant to actuaries at COP29.
The presentation will close with a few comments on the recent US elections. Rade spent over 25 years working in politics and public policy in both Washington and various US states. He has a strong understanding of the US political system and how things may change under the new Administration regarding climate policy.
More about our presenter
Rade Musulin is a Principal at Finity Consulting in Sydney, Australia, focusing on extreme events and climate risk. Previously he served as the Chief Executive Officer of FBAlliance Insurance, Chief Operating Officer of Aon Benfield Analytics Asia Pacific, and Vice President Operations, Public Affairs, and Reinsurance for the Florida Farm Bureau Insurance Companies.
Rade is Chair of the International Actuarial Association’s Climate and Sustainability Committee. He serves on the Actuaries Institute’s Climate and Sustainability Practice Committee and was Vice President – Casualty for the American Academy of Actuaries from 2016 – 2018. He was named as co-winner of the Actuaries Institute’s Actuary of the Year award in 2023. He has been an author on several peer reviewed academic papers and is a member of the Editorial Board for Oxford University’s Environmental Hazards Journal.
His main areas of interest include how changing population demographics affect catastrophe exposure, climate change adaptation, applications of catastrophe models for disaster planning in developing countries, building code development, and community resilience. He represented the International Actuarial Association at COP 27 in Egypt in 2022, COP 28 in Dubai in 2023, and COP 29 in Azerbaijan in 2024.

NZSA | New RIIG report: Spending patterns through retirement
2025-02-12 17:00 - 18:00
Join report author Alison O’Connell and RIIG Convenor Ian Perera to explore the RIIG’s latest report

Join report author Alison O’Connell and RIIG Convenor Ian Perera to explore the RIIG’s latest report “Spending patterns through retirement: what they mean for retirement planning and drawdown“. This challenges the commonly used assumption that retirees keep spending at the same level in real terms throughout retirement.
Learn about new local evidence and international evidence that RIIG have brought together, and actuarial thinking and analysis which shows that spending tends to decrease in real terms (adjusted for inflation) throughout retirement which means that the amount needed to be saved for retirement could be less than commonly assumed.
Here more about RIIG’s two key recommendations for policymakers:

That industry and government should review and adjust their assumptions and tools to reflect the typical reduction in spending through retirement.
That in personal planning for later life, retirees should consider the impact of their own spending reducing in real terms.

Register now to secure your place. This is an important webinar for all of us and highlights some excellent actuarial work!

NZSA | Christmas Lunches - Auckland and Wellington
2024-12-11 12:00 - 14:00
Join us for a festive celebration filled with great food and even better company!

🎄 You’re Invited to the Annual NZSA Christmas Lunch! 🎄
Join us for a festive celebration filled with great food and even better company! This is a wonderful opportunity to catch up with each other one last time before a well-earned break over the Christmas/New Year period.
Tickets are $45 per person and $20 per person for NZSA volunteers, which covers your 2-course (or equivalent) meal and first drink over lunch. Any other drinks can be paid for separately at the restaurant.
NZSA volunteers include anyone who has been part of an NZSA committee or otherwise volunteered for the NZSA during the past 12 months. Please ensure you select the correct ticket type when registering.
🗓 Date: Wednesday 11th December
🕛 Time: 12pm to 2pm
📍 Locations:
Auckland: Fantail & Turtle, Goodside, Smales Farm, 72 Taharoto Road, Takapuna (please let us know of any dietary requirements when registering)
Wellington: St Johns Bar & Eatery, 5 Cable Street, Te Aro, Wellington
Registrations will close on Wednesday 4th December, so please register early to ensure your place. We look forward to seeing you there!

NZSA Conference 2024
2024-11-24 17:00 - 2024-11-27 17:00 | Napier War Memorial Centre, 48 Marine Parade, Napier, New Zealand
Register now to secure your spot – we can’t wait to welcome you!

The New Zealand Society of Actuaries conference will be hosted at the Napier War Memorial Centre from Sunday 24 – Wednesday 27 November 2024 and this year’s theme is Actuaries Uncorked: A vintage of diversity and sustainability.
Please visit the official conference website by clicking register here below, for more information.

NZSA Annual General Meeting
2024-11-24 16:00 - 17:00
Join us for the Annual General Meeting of the Society

Join us for the Annual General Meeting of the Society, which will be held on Sunday 24th November 2024, in person, at the Napier War Memorial Centre.
The meeting will start at 4.00pm.

NZSA | Sessional Meeting Presentation. Webinar 2: The Emperor’s New Climate Scenarios
2024-11-06 08:30 - 09:30
We are delighted to announce a two part webinar series on climate change focussing on how actuaries can contribute. We’re fortunate to have the lead author of the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries’ recent series of reports on climate change, Sandy Trust, join us for this insightful webinar series.
Date: 6 November
Time: 8.30 AM – 9:30 AM
Scenario modelling is an important component of the actuarial risk-management toolkit. In the context of climate change, scenario modelling enables financial institutions and regulators to investigate the impact of different climate futures, which is important given the challenges we face.
Sandy Trust, lead author of The Emperor’s New Climate Scenarios, will again join us to share the key findings of this paper and help us understand how a deeper understanding of climate change, including tipping points, can improve financial services climate- scenario modelling.
Overview:

8:30 AM: Presentation on “The Emperor’s New Climate Scenarios” and Its Implications
9:00 AM: Q&A Session
9:15 AM: Closing Remarks

NZSA | Future Pathways Wellington
2024-10-17 16:30 - 20:00
The NZSA Student Committee is excited to present Future Pathways 2024

The NZSA Student Committee is excited to present Future Pathways 2024 – an event where our students and young actuaries take the stage. Similar to previous years, we will have presentations showcasing the varied and interesting types of work that actuaries do. We are looking forward to another great turnout this year!
This event holds special significance for us as we remember and honour Joe Benbow, who was the initiator of Future Pathways. As we gather to celebrate the achievements and potential of our students, we do so with deep gratitude for Joe’s contributions.
Wellington session: Thursday 17 October 2024 4.30pm- 8.00pm, Chubb Life 100 Willis Street Wellington.
Both sessions run from 5-7pm and will be followed by light drinks and nibbles.
If you have any questions, please contact Richard Zhou, Lucia Lu, or Shawn Sreedhar
Please RSVP by Friday 4 October 2024.
We hope to see you there!

NZSA | Future Pathways Auckland
2024-10-15 16:30 - 20:00
The NZSA Student Committee is excited to present Future Pathways 2024

The NZSA Student Committee is excited to present Future Pathways 2024 – an event where our students and young actuaries take the stage. Similar to previous years, we will have presentations showcasing the varied and interesting types of work that actuaries do. We are looking forward to another great turnout this year!
This event holds special significance for us as we remember and honour Joe Benbow, who was the initiator of Future Pathways. As we gather to celebrate the achievements and potential of our students, we do so with deep gratitude for Joe’s contributions.
Auckland session: Tuesday 15 October 2024 4.30pm- 8.00pm, PwC Level 27 15 Customs Street West Auckland CBD
Both sessions run from 5-7pm and will be followed by light drinks and nibbles.
If you have any questions, please contact Richard Zhou, Lucia Lu, or Shawn Sreedhar
Please RSVP by Friday 4 October 2024.
We hope to see you there!

NZSA | Sessional Meeting Presentation. Webinar 1: Climate Scorpion – the sting is in the tail
2024-10-02 18:15 - 19:30
We are delighted to announce a two part webinar series on climate change focussing on how actuaries can contribute. We’re fortunate to have the lead author of the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries’ recent series of reports on climate change, Sandy Trust, join us for this insightful webinar series.
‘Climate Scorpion – the sting is in the tail’ is the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries’ third report in collaboration with climate scientists. It shows that climate risks are complex, interconnected, and could threaten the basis of our society and economy.
The report introduces the concept of Planetary Solvency to support long-term policy decisions. Just as financial solvency assessments assess the ability of a financial entity to pay claims, Planetary Solvency would combine nature, climate, and societal risk assessments to assess risks to the ecosystem services that underpin our society, both now and in the future.
Overview:

6:15 PM: Introduction to NZSA Climate Statement by the Sustainability Interest Group (15 mins)
6:30 PM: Presentation on “Climate Scorpion” and Its Implications
7:10 PM: Q&A Session
7:25 PM: Closing Remarks
