Mercer KiwiSaver Sustainable Growth Fund
Where a company has multiple ethical concerns, the total concerns percentage counts this investment once.
The average total concerns of all funds of the same risk profile is weighted by the funds' investment values.
The average total concerns of all KiwiSaver growth funds is 8.07%.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Collectively the Coca-Cola related entities produce the most plastic rubbish in our oceans at 3 million tons of plastic packaging annually, which has devastating impacts on our oceans, wreaking havoc on wildlife and sending plastic particles into the food chain. Coca-Cola has also been subject to several lawsuits relating to marketing claims about the sustainability of its products.
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Diversified personal-care, homecare, and packaged food company. The company states that its products are sold in countries where animal testing of cosmetic products is required by law. Also, the third largest producer of plastics in the world’s oceans and is the biggest corporate seller of plastic sachets, which are significantly destructive, particularly in the Global South. Has pushed back its plastic reduction targets from 2025 to 2034.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Where companies source their power generation from fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal) to generate electricity.
Where companies are involved in the production of fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal, shale oil) including exploration, production (including core services), storage, transport (except by rail) and refining.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
The world’s second largest source of plastic garbage in the world’s oceans, which has devastating impacts on our oceans, wreaking havoc on wildlife and sending plastic particles into the food chain. Alongside other large companies who use plastics, PepsiCo appeared to lobby against some improvements propopsed by the Global Plastics Treaty.
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
The fifth largest producer worldwide of plastics in our oceans. It is seen by some investors as having unambitious recycling goals which it is also not meeting. Mondelez has also been linked to deforestation and child labour due to its operations.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Where companies are involved in the production of fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal, shale oil) including exploration, production (including core services), storage, transport (except by rail) and refining.
One of the world's largest mining companies, headquartered in Australia with operations globally. In 2015 Samarco (a BHP joint venture with Vale SA) caused the Mariana dam disaster releasing huge quantities of heavy metal waste into the Doce River basin. This is the largest pollution incident ever recorded and devastated communities and the ecosystem. BHP also mines thermal coal. While it sold some coal mines, it will continue to operate the Mt Arthur mine in New South Wales until 2030.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
The fourth largest producer of plastic pollution in our oceans globally. Annually, it uses 750,000 tonnes of plastic to package its products. The company has been subject to civil lawsuits by NGOs regarding its sustainability claims.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Fonterra ranks as the fifth largest source of greenhouse gas emissions among agri-food companies globally. This position is reflective of the heavy environmental footprint of the dairy industry, notably of methane (GHG) produced by dairy herds and other harm from intensive dairy farming practices such as through high nitrogen runoff into rivers, which flow into oceans.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Where companies are involved in the production of fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal, shale oil) including exploration, production (including core services), storage, transport (except by rail) and refining.
Mitsubishi Corporation is the largest seafood corporation in the world, with control over large companies, Cermaq and Toyo Reizo. The company has been charged by the Chilean Superintendence for the Environment for overproduction of salmon, for excessive krill harvesting in the Antarctic and called out for a controversial North West Shelf project, linked to various parts of their business including the companies they own.
Where companies source their power generation from fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal) to generate electricity.
One of Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest electric utilities companies. Operates three thermal power stations that employ gas and diesel. In FY2024, 81% of the energy Contact generated came from renewable energy (lower than in 2023 due to a dry winter). However, at the end of 2024 Contact opened a major new geothermal renewable facility - the Tauhara plant. It is considered to be on a climate change pathway aligned with 1.5°C of global temperature rise.
Where companies are involved in the production of fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal, shale oil) including exploration, production (including core services), storage, transport (except by rail) and refining.
Operates electric and natural gas transmission systems in the UK and US. It also operates facilities for storing LNG. including the Grain LNG terminal in the UK which is the largest LNG facility in Europe and 8th globally.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Where companies source their power generation from fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal) to generate electricity.
Where companies are involved in the production of fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal, shale oil) including exploration, production (including core services), storage, transport (except by rail) and refining.
Where companies source their power generation from fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal) to generate electricity.
Where companies are involved in the production of fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal, shale oil) including exploration, production (including core services), storage, transport (except by rail) and refining.
Where companies source their power generation from fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal) to generate electricity.
Portugal’s largest generator and distributor of electricity. It is the 4th largest generator of wind power in the world with 90% generated by renewables. However, revenue is still generated from fossil fuels; 5% from coal-fired plants and 5% from oil and gas. EDP have committed to being carbon neutral by 2030. The company is considered to be on a climate change pathway aligned with 1.5°C of global temperature rise.
Where companies source their power generation from fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal) to generate electricity.
Enel is one of the world's largests producers of renewable energy in the world and also holds a 70.1% stake in the energy company, Endesa. It generates around 7% of revenue from fossil fuels. However, the company generate 68% from renewables and have announced plans to be 100% renewable by 2040. Therefore, the company is considered to be on a climate change pathway aligned with 1.5°C of global temperature rise.
Where companies source their power generation from fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal) to generate electricity.
Endesa is the largest electric utilities company in Spain and the second largest in Portugal, generating electricity from a mix of hydropower, nuclear, coal, gas, oil, solar, and wind. Around 80% of energy generation is from renewables with a goal of 91% by the end of 2025. However, it still has power generated from fossil fuels. Therefore, the company is considered to be on a climate change pathway aligned with 1.5°C of global temperature rise.
Where companies source their power generation from fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal) to generate electricity.
Produces electricity from plants and distributes gas. Is expanding its portfolio of renewable assets (wind & solar farms + hydro) and options to reduce emissions from Huntly (Battery technology and biomass use). However, in 2023 35% of revenue came from fossil fuel generation - Huntley Power Station (Coal & Gas) and sales of gas from the Kupe field.
Where companies source their power generation from fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal) to generate electricity.
Where companies are involved in the production of fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal, shale oil) including exploration, production (including core services), storage, transport (except by rail) and refining.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Where companies are involved in the production of fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal, shale oil) including exploration, production (including core services), storage, transport (except by rail) and refining.
One of the world's largest mining companies, headquartered in Australia with operations globally. In 2015 Samarco (a BHP joint venture with Vale SA) caused the Mariana dam disaster releasing huge quantities of heavy metal waste into the Doce River basin. This is the largest pollution incident ever recorded and devastated communities and the ecosystem. BHP also mines thermal coal. While it sold some coal mines, it will continue to operate the Mt Arthur mine in New South Wales until 2030.
Where companies source their power generation from fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal) to generate electricity.
Where the actions of companies have violated global standards on human rights and freedoms including customary rights of indigenous people.
A global diversified miner, predominantly in iron ore but also copper, aluminium, diamonds, gold, and industrial minerals. In 2020, Rio Tinto destroyed Aboriginal 46,000-year-old sacred sites at an iron mine in Western Australia, leaving a considerable and irrepairable impact on the traditional owners. Also a pattern of harmful community-related incidents in West Papua, South Africa, Canada, the US and Serbia. The company also derives revenue from coal power plants through multiple associates and subsidiaries.
Where companies are involved in the production of fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal, shale oil) including exploration, production (including core services), storage, transport (except by rail) and refining.
Headquartered in Canada, TC Energy operates natural gas, oil, and power generation assets in Canada and the USA. The company operates nearly 100,000km of oil and gas pipelines, and currently has 2,170.6km of pipelines under development. Projects include Coastal GasLink.
Where companies source their power generation from fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal) to generate electricity.
Where companies are involved in the production of fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal, shale oil) including exploration, production (including core services), storage, transport (except by rail) and refining.
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
Where companies are involved in the production of fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal, shale oil) including exploration, production (including core services), storage, transport (except by rail) and refining.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Where companies are involved in the production of fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal, shale oil) including exploration, production (including core services), storage, transport (except by rail) and refining.
Mitsubishi Corporation is the largest seafood corporation in the world, with control over large companies, Cermaq and Toyo Reizo. The company has been charged by the Chilean Superintendence for the Environment for overproduction of salmon, for excessive krill harvesting in the Antarctic and called out for a controversial North West Shelf project, linked to various parts of their business including the companies they own.
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
Procter & Gamble Co. is a consumer products company involved in home goods, cosmetics and healthcare products. The company says they are committed to being cruelty free and ending animal testing, but are still involved in animal testing their cosmetic products, particularly on ingredients for cosmetics.
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Diversified personal-care, homecare, and packaged food company. The company states that its products are sold in countries where animal testing of cosmetic products is required by law. Also, the third largest producer of plastics in the world’s oceans and is the biggest corporate seller of plastic sachets, which are significantly destructive, particularly in the Global South. Has pushed back its plastic reduction targets from 2025 to 2034.
Where companies, through their products or operations, cause harm to animals e.g., animal entertainment (such as marine parks and rodeos), livestock exports, whale meat etc.
Where companies are involved in the production or retail of fur & speciality leather products (where animals are raised purely for skins).
Uses exotic leather and fur products in its luxury ranges such as crocodile, python and ostrich. Brands containing exotic leather include Donna Karan, Louis Vuitton, Fendi, Bvlgari, Céline. In addition it sells cosmetics and fragrances in China where testing on animals is required.
Where companies, through their products or operations, cause harm to animals e.g., animal entertainment (such as marine parks and rodeos), livestock exports, whale meat etc.
Where companies are involved in the production or retail of fur & speciality leather products (where animals are raised purely for skins).
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
L'Oréal is a personal care company and cosmetics company concentrating on hair colour, skin care, sun protection, make-up, perfume, and hair care. The company states that its products are sold in countries where animal testing of cosmetic products is required by law.
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
Where companies are involved in the production of fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal, shale oil) including exploration, production (including core services), storage, transport (except by rail) and refining.
Where companies are involved in significant harm to individuals or communities, through the unsafe nature of their products or delivery of services and inadequate response to evidence of harm.
The world’s largest social network (Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, WhatsApp). Company has faced claims and legal actions due to mental health harm (notably to young people), breaches of user privacy / data rights, and the spread of misinformation. Inadequate moderating in non-English speaking countries (e.g. Myanmar) allowed the platform to be used to incite ethnic violence. Removal of content moderation from strt of 2025 increases risk of social and political harm.
Where the actions of companies have violated global standards on human rights and freedoms including customary rights of indigenous people.
Thermo Fisher Scientific sells scientific instruments and laboratory equipment, diagnostics consumables, and life science reagents. Thermo Fisher DNA testing kits have been linked to surveillance and discriminatory purposes by the legal authorities in Xinjiang (a region of China) for monitoring and tracking the Muslim Uyghur ethnic group and other minorities. Evidence that DNA sequencing products continue to be distributed in China, despite the company announcing it would halt sales to the region.
Where companies are involved in significant harm to individuals or communities, through the unsafe nature of their products or delivery of services and inadequate response to evidence of harm.
Johnson & Johnson is the world's largest and most diverse healthcare firm. Repeated incidents related to the quality and safety of several of its products across drugs, devices, and consumer products. Exceptioanlly high number of liability claims relating to talc based products and links to cancers.
Where the actions of companies have violated global standards on human rights and freedoms including customary rights of indigenous people.
Nestle manufactures and sells food and beverages. The company has been criticised for exploiting local water resources for its bottled water production, which has forced underprivileged communities to pay a premium for their groundwater while alternatives have been exhausted. They are also the third largest source of plastic trash found in oceans. There have also been several allegations of labour conflicts and human rights violations in Nestle’s palm oil, coffee, fruits and seafood supply chains.
Where low standards of ethics create harm because of poor culture and inappropriate incentives, inadequate governance and oversight, and incidents of bribery and corruption.
Wells Fargo is a multinational financial services company which serves millions of customers in 35 countries. They have been involved in significant business ethics scandals for false inflation, cross selling and misleading customers over a period of 2002 to 2016.
Where the actions of companies have violated global standards on human rights and freedoms including customary rights of indigenous people.
Where a company is complicit in its products or services enabling violations of the Geneva Convention and infringement of the rights of individuals in war or conflict situations.
Has developed AI-based predictive policing systems. These are sold to Israeli security forces and used in surveillance of Palestinian in occupied Palestinian territories. The systems were originally designed for US immigration authorities and are used in the US to target immigrants and manage raids.
Where the actions of companies have violated global standards on labour rights and freedoms; including poor treatment of workers, child and forced labour, and modern slavery.
A ride and food delivery service provider. As Uber considers its drivers to be contractors, this limits their employee rights to the minimum wage, and providing the same benefits and rights as traditional taxi companies.
Where a company is complicit in its products or services enabling violations of the Geneva Convention and infringement of the rights of individuals in war or conflict situations.
Manufactures heavy equipment including large D9 bulldozers over a long period to the Israeli military. They have been used in demolishing Palestinian homes in illegally occupied territories, constructing illegal settlements and infrastructure. Also evidence of use in other conflict-affected areas, including Myanmar and the Western Sahara. Continued supply to conflict areas indicates lack of governance over human rights impacts and international norms.
Where low standards of ethics create harm because of poor culture and inappropriate incentives, inadequate governance and oversight, and incidents of bribery and corruption.
Acquired Credit Suisse in 2023, a bank with very poor governance which aided clients with tax evasion and money laundering. As a result, UBS has inherited ongoing regulatory fines and lawsuits relating to these failures. UBS has also been subject to lawsuits relating to its own manipulation of foreign exchange and interbank rates. It holds a provision of USD $4bn for claims (which may not be sufficient).
Where a company is complicit in its products or services enabling violations of the Geneva Convention and infringement of the rights of individuals in war or conflict situations.
Motorola is an American provider of communication products, video equipment, telecommunications equipment, software, systems, and services. Motorola Solutions and its subsidiary, Motorola Israel, have been accused of complicity in human rights violations due to its sale of communication products to the Israeli Ministry of Defence in the occupied Palestinian territories. Israeli settlements in occupied Palestinian territories are deemed illegal under international law.
Where companies source their power generation from fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal) to generate electricity.
Where the actions of companies have violated global standards on human rights and freedoms including customary rights of indigenous people.
A global diversified miner, predominantly in iron ore but also copper, aluminium, diamonds, gold, and industrial minerals. In 2020, Rio Tinto destroyed Aboriginal 46,000-year-old sacred sites at an iron mine in Western Australia, leaving a considerable and irrepairable impact on the traditional owners. Also a pattern of harmful community-related incidents in West Papua, South Africa, Canada, the US and Serbia. The company also derives revenue from coal power plants through multiple associates and subsidiaries.
Invests predominantly in growth assets such as shares and real assets, with only a limited amount in defensive assets such as fixed interest and cash. This fund may be suited to investors wanting to invest mostly in growth assets who are comfortable accepting more volatile returns than those expected from the Sustainable Balanced fund with a view to achieving higher longer-term returns. This fund is managed with reference to environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors and is certified by the Responsible Investment Association of Australasia.
Mercer is one of the world’s leading firms for superannuation, investments and workforce consulting, with over 25,000 colleagues worldwide helping build brighter futures for our customers and clients. Mercer has been helping Kiwis save for their best possible retirement for over 60 years. Our team of investment experts search the globe to find some of the best and most diverse investments to help maximise KiwiSaver returns and we invest responsibly.
| Value | $283M NZD |
| Period of data report | 30th June 2025 |
| Members | 6,266 |
| Fund started | 18th Feb. 2015 |
| Total annual fund fees | 0.84% |
| Total performance based fees | 0.0% |
| Manager's basic fee | 0.77% |
| Other management and administration charges | 0.07% |
| Total other charges | 0.0 |
| Total other charges currency | NZD |
|
Ross Butler |
Currently: Chair - Mercer (N.Z.) Ltd (2 years, 2 months)
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Kylie Willment |
Currently: Chief Investment Officer, Pacific, Mercer Australia (Pty) Ltd (7 years, 8 months)
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Padraig Brown |
Currently: Chief Investment Officer - New Zealand, Mercer (N.Z.) Ltd (3 years, 1 months)
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Robert Kavanagh |
Currently: Head of Portfolio Management NZ - Mercer (N.Z.) Ltd (11 years, 3 months)
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James Wilson |
Currently: Portfolio Manager - Mercer (N.Z.) Ltd (6 years, 5 months)
|
This information has been sourced from the quarterly data that each KiwiSaver fund has filed with Disclose register to 30th June 2025.
Past annual returns for this fund are after fees and taxes. Please note that higher past returns do not always mean higher future returns.
| Year | Market Average | Fund Annual Return |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 3.71% | 3.96% |
| 2024 | 14.15% | 12.59% |
| 2023 | -3.87% | -3.23% |
| 2022 | 1.40% | 4.04% |
| 2021 | 28.16% | 25.23% |
| 2020 | -3.43% | -4.97% |
| 2019 | 6.75% | 5.53% |
| 2018 | 7.80% | 8.0% |
| 2017 | 9.24% | 9.52% |
| 2016 | 3.62% | 3.24% |
The market average is the average return for funds of the same risk category, sourced from the Commission for Financial Capability's Sorted website. The fund information has been sourced from the quarterly data that each KiwiSaver fund has filed with Disclose register to 30th June 2025.
Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Corporation Limited
New Zealand Australasian Equities
Nvidia Corporation
United States International Equities
Microsoft Corporation
United States International Equities
Apple Inc.
United States International Equities
Auckland International Airport Limited
New Zealand Australasian Equities
Infratil Limited
New Zealand Australasian Equities
Contact Energy Limited
New Zealand Australasian Equities
Amazon.Com Inc
United States International Equities
Ebos Group Limited
New Zealand Australasian Equities
Mainfreight Limited
New Zealand Australasian Equities
| Type | Target | Actual |
|---|---|---|
| Cash and Cash Equivalents | 1.0% | 4.93% |
| New Zealand Fixed Interest | 5.0% | 5.42% |
| International Fixed Interest | 14.0% | 12.85% |
| Australasian Equities | 19.0% | 18.1% |
| International Equities | 52.0% | 49.91% |
| Listed Properties | 0.0% | 0.0% |
| Unlisted Properties | 3.0% | 2.93% |
| Other | 6.0% | 5.86% |
| Commodities | 0.0% | 0.0% |
How the money in this fund is invested by asset type.
This information has been sourced from the quarterly data that each KiwiSaver fund has filed with Disclose register to 30th June 2025.
This data is compiled by Mindful Money from the fund information and portfolios
that each
KiwiSaver
fund has
filed with the Disclose register to 31st March 2025 and Mindful Money
analysis of funds within those portfolios. The list of companies of concern has
been drawn from ratings agencies and public sources, including the Norwegian
Sovereign Fund, NZ Super Fund, Sustainalytics and research organisations.
Please note that companies may breach more than one of these areas of
concern.
The listing of companies of concern is based on definitions used in Mindful Money's
methodology. These definitions may
be different from the exclusions policy and definitions applied by the fund provider.
Mindful Money uses the term Mindful Funds as our standard
for ethical investment and responsible investment. This does not imply that
other funds are unethical or that the fund providers that do not meet these
standards are unethical providers.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Collectively the Coca-Cola related entities produce the most plastic rubbish in our oceans at 3 million tons of plastic packaging annually, which has devastating impacts on our oceans, wreaking havoc on wildlife and sending plastic particles into the food chain. Coca-Cola has also been subject to several lawsuits relating to marketing claims about the sustainability of its products.
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Diversified personal-care, homecare, and packaged food company. The company states that its products are sold in countries where animal testing of cosmetic products is required by law. Also, the third largest producer of plastics in the world’s oceans and is the biggest corporate seller of plastic sachets, which are significantly destructive, particularly in the Global South. Has pushed back its plastic reduction targets from 2025 to 2034.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Where companies source their power generation from fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal) to generate electricity.
Where companies are involved in the production of fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal, shale oil) including exploration, production (including core services), storage, transport (except by rail) and refining.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
The world’s second largest source of plastic garbage in the world’s oceans, which has devastating impacts on our oceans, wreaking havoc on wildlife and sending plastic particles into the food chain. Alongside other large companies who use plastics, PepsiCo appeared to lobby against some improvements propopsed by the Global Plastics Treaty.
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
The fifth largest producer worldwide of plastics in our oceans. It is seen by some investors as having unambitious recycling goals which it is also not meeting. Mondelez has also been linked to deforestation and child labour due to its operations.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Where companies are involved in the production of fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal, shale oil) including exploration, production (including core services), storage, transport (except by rail) and refining.
One of the world's largest mining companies, headquartered in Australia with operations globally. In 2015 Samarco (a BHP joint venture with Vale SA) caused the Mariana dam disaster releasing huge quantities of heavy metal waste into the Doce River basin. This is the largest pollution incident ever recorded and devastated communities and the ecosystem. BHP also mines thermal coal. While it sold some coal mines, it will continue to operate the Mt Arthur mine in New South Wales until 2030.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
The fourth largest producer of plastic pollution in our oceans globally. Annually, it uses 750,000 tonnes of plastic to package its products. The company has been subject to civil lawsuits by NGOs regarding its sustainability claims.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Fonterra ranks as the fifth largest source of greenhouse gas emissions among agri-food companies globally. This position is reflective of the heavy environmental footprint of the dairy industry, notably of methane (GHG) produced by dairy herds and other harm from intensive dairy farming practices such as through high nitrogen runoff into rivers, which flow into oceans.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Where companies are involved in the production of fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal, shale oil) including exploration, production (including core services), storage, transport (except by rail) and refining.
Mitsubishi Corporation is the largest seafood corporation in the world, with control over large companies, Cermaq and Toyo Reizo. The company has been charged by the Chilean Superintendence for the Environment for overproduction of salmon, for excessive krill harvesting in the Antarctic and called out for a controversial North West Shelf project, linked to various parts of their business including the companies they own.
Where companies source their power generation from fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal) to generate electricity.
One of Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest electric utilities companies. Operates three thermal power stations that employ gas and diesel. In FY2024, 81% of the energy Contact generated came from renewable energy (lower than in 2023 due to a dry winter). However, at the end of 2024 Contact opened a major new geothermal renewable facility - the Tauhara plant. It is considered to be on a climate change pathway aligned with 1.5°C of global temperature rise.
Where companies are involved in the production of fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal, shale oil) including exploration, production (including core services), storage, transport (except by rail) and refining.
Operates electric and natural gas transmission systems in the UK and US. It also operates facilities for storing LNG. including the Grain LNG terminal in the UK which is the largest LNG facility in Europe and 8th globally.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Where companies source their power generation from fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal) to generate electricity.
Where companies are involved in the production of fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal, shale oil) including exploration, production (including core services), storage, transport (except by rail) and refining.
Where companies source their power generation from fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal) to generate electricity.
Where companies are involved in the production of fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal, shale oil) including exploration, production (including core services), storage, transport (except by rail) and refining.
Where companies source their power generation from fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal) to generate electricity.
Portugal’s largest generator and distributor of electricity. It is the 4th largest generator of wind power in the world with 90% generated by renewables. However, revenue is still generated from fossil fuels; 5% from coal-fired plants and 5% from oil and gas. EDP have committed to being carbon neutral by 2030. The company is considered to be on a climate change pathway aligned with 1.5°C of global temperature rise.
Where companies source their power generation from fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal) to generate electricity.
Enel is one of the world's largests producers of renewable energy in the world and also holds a 70.1% stake in the energy company, Endesa. It generates around 7% of revenue from fossil fuels. However, the company generate 68% from renewables and have announced plans to be 100% renewable by 2040. Therefore, the company is considered to be on a climate change pathway aligned with 1.5°C of global temperature rise.
Where companies source their power generation from fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal) to generate electricity.
Endesa is the largest electric utilities company in Spain and the second largest in Portugal, generating electricity from a mix of hydropower, nuclear, coal, gas, oil, solar, and wind. Around 80% of energy generation is from renewables with a goal of 91% by the end of 2025. However, it still has power generated from fossil fuels. Therefore, the company is considered to be on a climate change pathway aligned with 1.5°C of global temperature rise.
Where companies source their power generation from fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal) to generate electricity.
Produces electricity from plants and distributes gas. Is expanding its portfolio of renewable assets (wind & solar farms + hydro) and options to reduce emissions from Huntly (Battery technology and biomass use). However, in 2023 35% of revenue came from fossil fuel generation - Huntley Power Station (Coal & Gas) and sales of gas from the Kupe field.
Where companies source their power generation from fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal) to generate electricity.
Where companies are involved in the production of fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal, shale oil) including exploration, production (including core services), storage, transport (except by rail) and refining.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Where companies are involved in the production of fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal, shale oil) including exploration, production (including core services), storage, transport (except by rail) and refining.
One of the world's largest mining companies, headquartered in Australia with operations globally. In 2015 Samarco (a BHP joint venture with Vale SA) caused the Mariana dam disaster releasing huge quantities of heavy metal waste into the Doce River basin. This is the largest pollution incident ever recorded and devastated communities and the ecosystem. BHP also mines thermal coal. While it sold some coal mines, it will continue to operate the Mt Arthur mine in New South Wales until 2030.
Where companies source their power generation from fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal) to generate electricity.
Where the actions of companies have violated global standards on human rights and freedoms including customary rights of indigenous people.
A global diversified miner, predominantly in iron ore but also copper, aluminium, diamonds, gold, and industrial minerals. In 2020, Rio Tinto destroyed Aboriginal 46,000-year-old sacred sites at an iron mine in Western Australia, leaving a considerable and irrepairable impact on the traditional owners. Also a pattern of harmful community-related incidents in West Papua, South Africa, Canada, the US and Serbia. The company also derives revenue from coal power plants through multiple associates and subsidiaries.
Where companies are involved in the production of fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal, shale oil) including exploration, production (including core services), storage, transport (except by rail) and refining.
Headquartered in Canada, TC Energy operates natural gas, oil, and power generation assets in Canada and the USA. The company operates nearly 100,000km of oil and gas pipelines, and currently has 2,170.6km of pipelines under development. Projects include Coastal GasLink.
Where companies source their power generation from fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal) to generate electricity.
Where companies are involved in the production of fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal, shale oil) including exploration, production (including core services), storage, transport (except by rail) and refining.
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
Where companies are involved in the production of fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal, shale oil) including exploration, production (including core services), storage, transport (except by rail) and refining.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Where companies are involved in the production of fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal, shale oil) including exploration, production (including core services), storage, transport (except by rail) and refining.
Mitsubishi Corporation is the largest seafood corporation in the world, with control over large companies, Cermaq and Toyo Reizo. The company has been charged by the Chilean Superintendence for the Environment for overproduction of salmon, for excessive krill harvesting in the Antarctic and called out for a controversial North West Shelf project, linked to various parts of their business including the companies they own.
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
Procter & Gamble Co. is a consumer products company involved in home goods, cosmetics and healthcare products. The company says they are committed to being cruelty free and ending animal testing, but are still involved in animal testing their cosmetic products, particularly on ingredients for cosmetics.
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Diversified personal-care, homecare, and packaged food company. The company states that its products are sold in countries where animal testing of cosmetic products is required by law. Also, the third largest producer of plastics in the world’s oceans and is the biggest corporate seller of plastic sachets, which are significantly destructive, particularly in the Global South. Has pushed back its plastic reduction targets from 2025 to 2034.
Where companies, through their products or operations, cause harm to animals e.g., animal entertainment (such as marine parks and rodeos), livestock exports, whale meat etc.
Where companies are involved in the production or retail of fur & speciality leather products (where animals are raised purely for skins).
Uses exotic leather and fur products in its luxury ranges such as crocodile, python and ostrich. Brands containing exotic leather include Donna Karan, Louis Vuitton, Fendi, Bvlgari, Céline. In addition it sells cosmetics and fragrances in China where testing on animals is required.
Where companies, through their products or operations, cause harm to animals e.g., animal entertainment (such as marine parks and rodeos), livestock exports, whale meat etc.
Where companies are involved in the production or retail of fur & speciality leather products (where animals are raised purely for skins).
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
Where companies, through their products or operations, are involved in environmental degradation e.g., pollution, chemical spills.
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
L'Oréal is a personal care company and cosmetics company concentrating on hair colour, skin care, sun protection, make-up, perfume, and hair care. The company states that its products are sold in countries where animal testing of cosmetic products is required by law.
Where companies are involved in testing products on animals for cosmetic, personal care, household product, chemical and other uses. We do not include companies which conduct animal testing for pharmaceutical products, medical devices, biotechnology, human food, or pet food.
Where companies are involved in the production of fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal, shale oil) including exploration, production (including core services), storage, transport (except by rail) and refining.
Where companies are involved in significant harm to individuals or communities, through the unsafe nature of their products or delivery of services and inadequate response to evidence of harm.
The world’s largest social network (Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, WhatsApp). Company has faced claims and legal actions due to mental health harm (notably to young people), breaches of user privacy / data rights, and the spread of misinformation. Inadequate moderating in non-English speaking countries (e.g. Myanmar) allowed the platform to be used to incite ethnic violence. Removal of content moderation from strt of 2025 increases risk of social and political harm.
Where the actions of companies have violated global standards on human rights and freedoms including customary rights of indigenous people.
Thermo Fisher Scientific sells scientific instruments and laboratory equipment, diagnostics consumables, and life science reagents. Thermo Fisher DNA testing kits have been linked to surveillance and discriminatory purposes by the legal authorities in Xinjiang (a region of China) for monitoring and tracking the Muslim Uyghur ethnic group and other minorities. Evidence that DNA sequencing products continue to be distributed in China, despite the company announcing it would halt sales to the region.
Where companies are involved in significant harm to individuals or communities, through the unsafe nature of their products or delivery of services and inadequate response to evidence of harm.
Johnson & Johnson is the world's largest and most diverse healthcare firm. Repeated incidents related to the quality and safety of several of its products across drugs, devices, and consumer products. Exceptioanlly high number of liability claims relating to talc based products and links to cancers.
Where the actions of companies have violated global standards on human rights and freedoms including customary rights of indigenous people.
Nestle manufactures and sells food and beverages. The company has been criticised for exploiting local water resources for its bottled water production, which has forced underprivileged communities to pay a premium for their groundwater while alternatives have been exhausted. They are also the third largest source of plastic trash found in oceans. There have also been several allegations of labour conflicts and human rights violations in Nestle’s palm oil, coffee, fruits and seafood supply chains.
Where low standards of ethics create harm because of poor culture and inappropriate incentives, inadequate governance and oversight, and incidents of bribery and corruption.
Wells Fargo is a multinational financial services company which serves millions of customers in 35 countries. They have been involved in significant business ethics scandals for false inflation, cross selling and misleading customers over a period of 2002 to 2016.
Where the actions of companies have violated global standards on human rights and freedoms including customary rights of indigenous people.
Where a company is complicit in its products or services enabling violations of the Geneva Convention and infringement of the rights of individuals in war or conflict situations.
Has developed AI-based predictive policing systems. These are sold to Israeli security forces and used in surveillance of Palestinian in occupied Palestinian territories. The systems were originally designed for US immigration authorities and are used in the US to target immigrants and manage raids.
Where the actions of companies have violated global standards on labour rights and freedoms; including poor treatment of workers, child and forced labour, and modern slavery.
A ride and food delivery service provider. As Uber considers its drivers to be contractors, this limits their employee rights to the minimum wage, and providing the same benefits and rights as traditional taxi companies.
Where a company is complicit in its products or services enabling violations of the Geneva Convention and infringement of the rights of individuals in war or conflict situations.
Manufactures heavy equipment including large D9 bulldozers over a long period to the Israeli military. They have been used in demolishing Palestinian homes in illegally occupied territories, constructing illegal settlements and infrastructure. Also evidence of use in other conflict-affected areas, including Myanmar and the Western Sahara. Continued supply to conflict areas indicates lack of governance over human rights impacts and international norms.
Where low standards of ethics create harm because of poor culture and inappropriate incentives, inadequate governance and oversight, and incidents of bribery and corruption.
Acquired Credit Suisse in 2023, a bank with very poor governance which aided clients with tax evasion and money laundering. As a result, UBS has inherited ongoing regulatory fines and lawsuits relating to these failures. UBS has also been subject to lawsuits relating to its own manipulation of foreign exchange and interbank rates. It holds a provision of USD $4bn for claims (which may not be sufficient).
Where a company is complicit in its products or services enabling violations of the Geneva Convention and infringement of the rights of individuals in war or conflict situations.
Motorola is an American provider of communication products, video equipment, telecommunications equipment, software, systems, and services. Motorola Solutions and its subsidiary, Motorola Israel, have been accused of complicity in human rights violations due to its sale of communication products to the Israeli Ministry of Defence in the occupied Palestinian territories. Israeli settlements in occupied Palestinian territories are deemed illegal under international law.
Where companies source their power generation from fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, coal) to generate electricity.
Where the actions of companies have violated global standards on human rights and freedoms including customary rights of indigenous people.
A global diversified miner, predominantly in iron ore but also copper, aluminium, diamonds, gold, and industrial minerals. In 2020, Rio Tinto destroyed Aboriginal 46,000-year-old sacred sites at an iron mine in Western Australia, leaving a considerable and irrepairable impact on the traditional owners. Also a pattern of harmful community-related incidents in West Papua, South Africa, Canada, the US and Serbia. The company also derives revenue from coal power plants through multiple associates and subsidiaries.
Invests predominantly in growth assets such as shares and real assets, with only a limited amount in defensive assets such as fixed interest and cash. This fund may be suited to investors wanting to invest mostly in growth assets who are comfortable accepting more volatile returns than those expected from the Sustainable Balanced fund with a view to achieving higher longer-term returns. This fund is managed with reference to environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors and is certified by the Responsible Investment Association of Australasia.
Mercer is one of the world’s leading firms for superannuation, investments and workforce consulting, with over 25,000 colleagues worldwide helping build brighter futures for our customers and clients. Mercer has been helping Kiwis save for their best possible retirement for over 60 years. Our team of investment experts search the globe to find some of the best and most diverse investments to help maximise KiwiSaver returns and we invest responsibly.
| Value | $283M NZD |
| Period of data report | 30th June 2025 |
| Members | 6,266 |
| Fund started | 18th Feb. 2015 |
| Total annual fund fees | 0.84% |
| Total performance based fees | 0.0% |
| Manager's basic fee | 0.77% |
| Other management and administration charges | 0.07% |
| Total other charges | 0.0 |
| Total other charges currency | NZD |
|
Ross Butler |
Currently: Chair - Mercer (N.Z.) Ltd (2 years, 2 months)
|
|
Kylie Willment |
Currently: Chief Investment Officer, Pacific, Mercer Australia (Pty) Ltd (7 years, 8 months)
|
|
Padraig Brown |
Currently: Chief Investment Officer - New Zealand, Mercer (N.Z.) Ltd (3 years, 1 months)
|
|
Robert Kavanagh |
Currently: Head of Portfolio Management NZ - Mercer (N.Z.) Ltd (11 years, 3 months)
|
|
James Wilson |
Currently: Portfolio Manager - Mercer (N.Z.) Ltd (6 years, 5 months)
|
This information has been sourced from the quarterly data that each KiwiSaver fund has filed with Disclose register to 30th June 2025.
Past annual returns for this fund are after fees and taxes. Please note that higher past returns do not always mean higher future returns.
| Year | Market Average | Fund Annual Return |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 3.71% | 3.96% |
| 2024 | 14.15% | 12.59% |
| 2023 | -3.87% | -3.23% |
| 2022 | 1.40% | 4.04% |
| 2021 | 28.16% | 25.23% |
| 2020 | -3.43% | -4.97% |
| 2019 | 6.75% | 5.53% |
| 2018 | 7.80% | 8.0% |
| 2017 | 9.24% | 9.52% |
| 2016 | 3.62% | 3.24% |
The market average is the average return for funds of the same risk category, sourced from the Commission for Financial Capability's Sorted website. The fund information has been sourced from the quarterly data that each KiwiSaver fund has filed with Disclose register to 30th June 2025.
Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Corporation Limited
New Zealand Australasian Equities
Nvidia Corporation
United States International Equities
Microsoft Corporation
United States International Equities
Apple Inc.
United States International Equities
Auckland International Airport Limited
New Zealand Australasian Equities
Infratil Limited
New Zealand Australasian Equities
Contact Energy Limited
New Zealand Australasian Equities
Amazon.Com Inc
United States International Equities
Ebos Group Limited
New Zealand Australasian Equities
Mainfreight Limited
New Zealand Australasian Equities
| Type | Target | Actual |
|---|---|---|
| Cash and Cash Equivalents | 1.0% | 4.93% |
| New Zealand Fixed Interest | 5.0% | 5.42% |
| International Fixed Interest | 14.0% | 12.85% |
| Australasian Equities | 19.0% | 18.1% |
| International Equities | 52.0% | 49.91% |
| Listed Properties | 0.0% | 0.0% |
| Unlisted Properties | 3.0% | 2.93% |
| Other | 6.0% | 5.86% |
| Commodities | 0.0% | 0.0% |
How the money in this fund is invested by asset type.
This information has been sourced from the quarterly data that each KiwiSaver fund has filed with Disclose register to 30th June 2025.
This data is compiled by Mindful Money from the fund information and portfolios
that each
KiwiSaver
fund has
filed with the Disclose register to 31st March 2025 and Mindful Money
analysis of funds within those portfolios. The list of companies of concern has
been drawn from ratings agencies and public sources, including the Norwegian
Sovereign Fund, NZ Super Fund, Sustainalytics and research organisations.
Please note that companies may breach more than one of these areas of
concern.
The listing of companies of concern is based on definitions used in Mindful Money's
methodology. These definitions may
be different from the exclusions policy and definitions applied by the fund provider.
Mindful Money uses the term Mindful Funds as our standard
for ethical investment and responsible investment. This does not imply that
other funds are unethical or that the fund providers that do not meet these
standards are unethical providers.
