Cruising into retirement

Neville Frisby retired last year after working at NZAS for 34 years.

As I neared retirement last year, I kept a close eye on my Fund account balance and the financial markets, especially following the rise of the COVID-19 global pandemic. I felt it was important I understood that my retirement funds were being invested wisely. 

Being a member of the NZAS Retirement Fund for over 30 years, I appreciate how saving for my retirement is a long-term task. I think it is helpful to start young in order to maximise the full benefits, as every little bit saved from each pay adds up longterm. I started seriously saving for my retirement in the mid-1970s. I found the Comalco (New Zealand) Staff Superannuation Fund and then the NZAS Retirement Fund great to be a part of; information was easily accessible and straightforward to understand. My son who now works for NZAS asked me about the NZAS Retirement Fund and if he should join. As someone who was a member for over 30 years, the answer was a no brainer

My time at NZAS was fabulous; I spent most of my working career there and enjoyed my role as a team leader. The number of people I managed varied from 12 to 25. I enjoyed the social aspect of people management and helping my team achieve their long and short-term goals. I was sad to be leaving the company as I made many friends along the way who I still keep in close contact with. I was recently invited to an NZAS event; which shows that even though I am a former employee I am still valued by the team as a friend.

I retired on 31 December 2020, and starting 2021 off as a retiree was great. I have the freedom to do what I want when I want. My wife and I have a motor home that we use of a daily basis. The motor home allows us to travel the great south stress free. From fishing to hunting, and juggling life as a grandfather to five grandchildren, I love to keep myself busy. I enjoy taking my grandchildren out for a fish on a sunny day as well as going to their rugby and netball games.

The NZAS Retirement Fund has given me the financial stability to enjoy life as a retiree; I am looking forward to what the future holds.