About us

Our Story

Common Sense Financial Planning was born out of the idea that everyone in Hawkes Bay deserves the ability to receive common sense financial advice.

Based in Napier, the Common Sense Financial Planning team have over 35 years of experience assisting clients from all walks of life to achieve their goals and reach their dreams.

We specialise in simplifying the complex and allow our clients to plan for the future, protect against the unknown and manage your wealth in a independent and holistic evidence-based approach.

We work in partnership with our clients to give them the best possible experience and peace of mind about their financial future.

Our People

Brad MacDonald
Authorised Financial Adviser

A born and bred Hawkes Bay boy, Brad has been providing retirement planning advice for several years before joining forces with Gary to form Common Sense Financial Planning.

Brad and his wife Yvette live locally in Hastings having spent some years living in Auckland before returning to the bay with their two girls to enjoy everything that it has to offer.

Brad is a self-described sports nut and still plays football and cricket along with a bit of golf (much to his physio's disgust). Brad is also treasurer of the Maycenvale United football club based out of the Hastings Sports Park.

Gary Hemmings
Registered Financial Adviser

Originally from Pahiatua, Gary worked in the meat industry and spent some 15 years managing freezing works around NZ. In 1987 he moved to the financial services industry based in Hawkes Bay.

Gary and his wife Lynne live in Taradale and enjoy spending time supporting the grandkids in all their endeavours, especially sporting.

Gary's three passions in life are family, sport and service to youth and community through Rotary.

Kaye Kampkes
Office extraordinaire

Kaye manages the day to day requirements of Common Sense Financial Planning, whether that is assisting with managing claims, organising networking events or simply keeping Gary and Brad on track (easier said than done).

Kaye and her husband Bart live in Taradale, and have a couple of older children and a very lucky young grandson Logan who gets spoilt rotten.

Kaye growing up in HB enjoys all that the bay has to offer.