The report found there is no change in the proportion of Kiwis who have savings or investments, sitting at 84 percent for the past three years.
Analysis suggests gender norms influence attitudes towards saving.
"It is credit and it is debt, and if you're not able to pay that back, that does incur fees."
These services currently fall outside of the law because they don't charge interest, only late fees.
The schemes can push people into financial hardship.
Also, the number of Kiwis who struggle to make ends meet has halved.
Expert offers advice for women investors.
Enjoy free time with the kids and hang on to your cash.
The new criteria is expected to help purchasers make wise decisions.