Finance

Finance can be broadly defined as the science of money management. It plays a crucial role in the health of an economy and every business enterprise within it. Whereas accounting is mostly about measuring past performance, finance is more about planning for the future.

To understand how modern economies work, finance professionals need to understand the stock market, the financing of companies, financial contracts, corporate and government decision-making and portfolio choice. Financial advisers’ services to their communities include budgeting, investing, borrowing, lending, debt management, insuring, hedging, diversifying, asset management and retirement planning.

• Introduction of financial technology (FinTech), including data analytics, automation, and AI, is reshaping finance roles.
• ESG investing is creating demand for those who understand sustainability and ethical finance.
• Corporate finance, mergers and acquisitions, and investment banking are high-growth areas for finance graduates.
• Regulatory changes are opening roles in compliance, financial crime prevention, and governance.
• Open banking and embedded finance are creating new opportunities in digital strategy and product innovation.
  

Future employment prospects for a New Zealand university student studying finance are promising with opportunities in corporate finance, investment banking, financial planning, and risk management. The sector is expanding across both public and private organisations, including government agencies and multinational firms.

The rise of financial technology (FinTech) is reshaping the industry, creating new roles in digital finance, data analytics, and financial innovation. Furthermore, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) investing is becoming central to financial decision-making, driving demand for professionals skilled in green finance, carbon accounting, and ethical investment strategies.

Skills in financial analysis, strategic thinking, and risk assessment remain highly valued, and further study or professional certifications can enhance job opportunities. The global nature of finance also means graduates can pursue careers abroad, especially in Australia, the UK, and Asia.

• An in-depth understanding of fundamental finance concepts and theories and their application to businesses and financial markets
• Ability to consider the social, ethical, environmental and global aspects of financial decisions
• Strong data analysis skills
  
• Strategic thinking skills
• Problem solving skills
  
• Planning and organisation skills
• Relationship building and collaboration skills
• Oral and written communication skills
• Strong sense of ethics and professionalism
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
• A commitment to ongoing learning

Career opportunities include:

• Actuary (with further qualifications)
• Capital investment analyst
• Compliance/Governance analyst
• Corporate finance specialist
• Financial analyst/planner/adviser
• Insurance adviser
• Investment banker
• Mortgage broker
• Real estate agent
• Risk analyst
• Stockbroker
• Treasury analyst
• Venture capital analyst
• Wealth management adviser

These are just a few career examples—don’t feel limited to them. Many employers accept graduates from any degree background.

Social media networks such as LinkedIn can also help you to keep up-to-date with industry knowledge, events and job vacancies.

 Opportunities exist in both the public and private sectors, including government agencies, multinational corporations, and economic development organisations. New Zealand’s finance sector is expanding, driven by innovation in FinTech, sustainability, and regulatory reform.

Finance graduate profiles

Beta Alpha Psi

Beta Alpha Psi is an international honorary organisation for Accounting, Finance and Informations Systems students and professionals.
Beta Alpha Psi

SavY

SavY aims to promote good financial habits in all young people, regardless of their backgrounds or their aspirations in life.
SavY

University of Auckland Investment Club (UAIC)

The club hosts workshops and events with high-profile guest speakers from finance and banking.
UAIC

More clubs and societies at the Business School

Institute of Finance Professionals New Zealand (INFINZ)

The member-based industry body for professionals working and participating in New Zealand's wholesale finance and capital markets.
Institute of Finance Professionals New Zealand

Institute of Financial Advisers

A professional membership organisation for financial advisers across all areas of advice such as lending, risk/insurance, KiwiSaver, investment, financial planning and more. 
Institute of Financial Advisers

Accounting and Finance Association of Australia and New Zealand (AFAANZ)

The premier body representing the interests of accounting and finance academics and other persons interested in accounting and finance education and research in Australia and New Zealand.
Accounting and Finance Association of Australia and New Zealand

Careers New Zealand

The Careers New Zealand website provides useful salary information for a range of business and industry roles, as well as information on the difference a qualification makes to what you are paid, and advice on negotiating your salary. You can also search for salary information by job.
Careers New Zealand

Inside Careers

Inside Careers specialises in finance careers in the UK. You’ll find information on the following career sectors: actuaries, insurance, pensions, investment banking, chartered accountancy, tax and management consultancy
Inside Careers

Prospects

Prospects specialises in advice for UK university students and graduates. Much of the information is relevant to NZ students.
Prospects