About Us
At The Smart Advice Collective, our mission is simple:
To simplify your life with smart, savvy financial solutions.
Whether you’re planning to buy your first home, protect your loved ones, or get smarter about your finances, we’re here to make the process easier, clearer, and more empowering.
Meet our friendly team below — we’re ready to assist you in any way we can and guide you toward financial choices that truly work for you.
Our Advisers
Owner/Director. Personal Insurance. Kiwisaver & Investments.
Sarah Cavanagh
Hi! I’m Sarah, owner and director of the Smart Advice Collective. I'm your personal insurance and investment expert in New Zealand since 1996. I work with women and families to secure the right cover, from life and health insurance to KiwiSaver and investment strategies, with clarity and confidence. My goal is to make protecting your lifestyle and building wealth simple, personal, and effective, helping you secure what matters most for the long term.
Auckland & NZ-Wide
Mortgages.
Rachael Thompson
Hi, I’m Rachael, the Smarter Mortgage Lady since 2013. I love helping people find a place to call home and believe everyone deserves the chance to pay off their mortgage faster without sacrificing lifestyle. With a structured approach that gives you flexibility and certainty, I help clients reach their financial goals. Whether you’re a first-home buyer or a property investor, I’d love to help you save time, money, and stress.
Auckland & NZ-Wide
Domestic, Fire & General Insurance. Commercial Insurance.
Carrie Thomas
Hi, I'm Carrie. I bring empathy and expertise to general and commercial insurance. As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, my mission is to create an inclusive space built on trust, not just policies. My approach is refreshingly personal: I am committed to simplifying the process, understanding your unique needs, and providing reliable, tailored insurance solutions for your general or business coverage.
Rotorua & NZ-Wide
Mortgages. KiwiSaver & Investments. Financial Coaching.
Elise Vine
Hi, I'm Elise. I love nothing more than to see people achieving their goals, and discovering the options and opportunities that are available to them through smart financial mapping.
I'm a trained Property Lending Specialist, and I've been working with clients since 2002 as a Property Investment and Wealth coach. I have experience with property investing and personal business, and a strong desire to serve others.
Christchurch & NZ-Wide
Domestic, Fire & General Insurance.
Hollie Bailey
Hi, I'm Hollie, with a rural background and over 13 years of experience in the Fire & General Insurance industry and customer services, I enjoy helping clients navigate insurance with confidence.
I specialise in simplifying what can often feel complex; offering smart, practical advice that’s tailored to your individual needs.
Whangarei & NZ-Wide
Personal Insurance
Jodi Imlach
I’m Jodi, a life and health insurance adviser. I help individuals and families make sense of their insurance and put the right protection in place for their future. I keep things simple, honest and easy to understand. My goal is simple. I want you and your whānau to live long, happy, and healthy lives. If life takes an unexpected turn, we’ll have a plan in place, and you’ll never have to face it alone.
Christchurch & NZ-Wide
Personal Insurance
Lorena Avila
Hi, I’m Lorena, an insurance adviser passionate about helping individuals, families, and businesses protect what matters most. I keep things simple and honest, turning complex insurance concepts into clear choices. My goal is to give you total peace of mind and financial confidence. By listening carefully to your unique needs, we will put the right insurance protection in place so you always feel supported.
Christchurch & NZ-Wide
Our Support Team
Hyna Gumba
Hi, I’m Hyna, the admin behind the scenes at The Smart Advice Collective. I support Sarah and Rachael by keeping our operations running smoothly and efficiently. My goal is to create a welcoming and organised environment so they can focus on delivering exceptional advice and support to our clients. Whether you're reaching out for the first time or are a long-time client, I'm here to help make your experience stress-free.
Kristalyn Mae Zapata
Hi, I’m Kristalyn, the admin partner at The Smart Advice Collective. I support Carrie and Sarah behind the scenes so your experience feels clear, welcoming, and genuinely cared for.
My focus is on keeping everything organised and running smoothly, making each step simple and stress‑free so you can feel confident knowing you’re always in good hands.
FAQs about advisers
Ready to Build Your Future as an Insurance, Mortgage or Investment Adviser?
Join us and become part of a forward-thinking collective that genuinely puts your independence and success first. Explore the opportunity to become part of our growing team.
Proud to Support Women’s Refuge NZ
We believe in backing women not only through great financial advice but through real-world support too.
That’s why we make a cash donation to Women’s Refuge New Zealand for every new client who engages with us.
We're also proud to support the Shielded Site project, helping those affected by domestic violence access help safely. You’ll find a link in the footer of this website for anyone who may need it.