About Vista
Vista is a small, tight-knit team focused on building genuine relationships and delivering financial advice with a personal approach.
WHO IS VISTA
Built on Relationships, Guided by Experience
Vista Wealth + Protection was founded by Guy Buchanan and David Pottinger with a shared belief that financial advice should feel more connected, personal, and built around real relationships. By bringing together expertise across insurance, KiwiSaver, and investments, Vista was created to give everyday Kiwis clearer guidance, trusted support, and confidence in every stage of their financial journey.
Meet the Team
Vista is a small, tight-knit team focused on building genuine relationships and delivering financial advice with a personal approach.
-
![]()
David Pottinger
Director & Financial Adviser
David Pottinger is a Qualified Financial Adviser specialising in Personal Risk and KiwiSaver advice since 2016. Born and raised in Canterbury, David holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Canterbury and the New Zealand Certificate in Financial Services Level 5. He is passionate about helping individuals, families, and business owners protect what matters most.
Read More
Family was a key influence in David’s decision to move into financial advice, having seen firsthand the difference good insurance and financial planning can make during difficult times. He particularly enjoys supporting clients through the claims process and building long-term relationships based on trust and genuine care.
David lives in Christchurch with his wife Kylie, their three children, and family dog Koby. Outside of work, he enjoys coaching rugby, spending time outdoors, and making the most of family life and time with friends.
-
![]()
Guy Buchanan
Director & Financial Adviser
Guy started his career as a specialist risk adviser in 2007 and has since used his skills, experience, and passion to build long-term relationships with clients across New Zealand. Guy lives in Christchurch, is married to Niamh and has two young children.
Over his career Guy has completed the following industry-specific qualifications:
Read More
National Certificate in Financial Services Financial Advice Level 5 – 2011
Diploma in Financial Planning from International Institute of Technology, Sydney, Australia - 2013
Graduate Diploma in Business Studies (endorsed in Personal Financial Planning) from Massey University - 2016
Guy is a founding member of Financial Advice New Zealand and has been awarded the Trusted Adviser Mark for long-term industry experience, high standard of ethics and quality of advice.
Outside of work, Guy enjoys running, tennis, skiing and family camping holidays.
-
![]()
Liam Ambrose
Kiwisaver and Investment Adviser
I graduated with a business degree in Leeds back in 2013, moved to New Zealand shortly after, and I’m proud to have called Christchurch home for 12 years now.
Before moving into investment advice, I spent much of my career as an operations manager within the fast-paced events industry.
Read More
This role saw me travelling across the South Island and helping bring some of the country's largest events to Hagley Park. These experiences ingrained in me a focus on precision, adaptability and long-term planning – principals that I adhere to rigorously when advising clients.
When I’m not at my desk, I’m usually out cycling or tramping in our beautiful hills, hosting pub quizzes around town, watching the cricket or travelling with my partner.
As a keen investor, I spend a lot of time keeping up with market trends and building for my future, and I am excited to help you do the same!
-
![]()
Kate Herriott
Operations and Compliance Manager
Before moving into the financial advice industry, Kate held senior roles within a large FMCG organisation, leading national compliance, auditing, and regulatory functions. She holds a Bachelor of Science and brings extensive experience working within structured compliance environments, managing risk, improving systems, and supporting teams through periods of growth and change.
Read More
Kate is passionate about people and enjoys finding practical ways to balance strong regulatory standards with excellent client service and day-to-day business operations. She brings a calm, thoughtful approach and values building systems and processes that genuinely support both clients and teams.
Outside of work, Kate is usually busy with her young family, out tramping in the hills, or catching up with friends over a good craft beer.
Why Vista?
At Vista, we believe financial advice should feel personal, connected, and easy to understand. We take the time to build genuine relationships and create tailored strategies that help protect what matters while supporting your long-term goals.
-
We’re a small, tight-knit team that values real relationships, honest conversations, and advice tailored to your unique situation.
-
By bringing together insurance, KiwiSaver, and investments, we create strategies that work together, not in isolation.
-
We believe financial advice should feel clear and straightforward, giving you confidence in every decision.
-
We’re here for more than a one-off conversation, providing ongoing support as your life, goals, and priorities evolve.
-
Our advice comes at no direct cost to you, allowing you to access professional guidance and ongoing support without the added financial pressure.
Looking for financial advice that feels more personal?
Whether you’re planning ahead, protecting your family, or building long-term wealth, Vista is here to provide clear guidance, genuine support, and strategies tailored to your goals.