"The diversification of everything - from tourism to manufacturing - has helped strengthen the Waikato economy."
Hickey, who has been a financial journalist for 25 years, will be the keynote speaker at two seminars in Cambridge and Hamilton on August 17. Hosted by Lifetime Income, the 'practical retirement income solutions' seminars will give people advice on how they can support their lifestyle in retirement, and new approaches to converting retirement savings into retirement income.
Hickey says it's time for New Zealanders to think differently about retirement. Increased longevity means people need to think about and plan for their retirement in advance.
"People today can generally expect to live a good five or 10 years longer than previous generations," said Hickey.
"Living longer is a good thing, but we've got to rethink what we will need after 65."
He predicts people will want to keep working after 65.
"Work gives people a social connection and a purpose, and people may want to look at continuing work part-time or become self-employed."
He fears for the next generation of retirees if they are renting or paying off large mortgages or debt at retirement age.
"New Zealand superannuation is designed to supplement your income so that it's almost enough for you to live on it if you are not paying mortgage or rent," said Hickey, who recommends people own their house mortgage-free by 65.
"The ones that have things toughest are the portion of elderly who are still renting. The worst scenario is to have no job or income and no house when you retire; that's a tough place to be."
Hickey said there were a variety of things people could do have an income stream in their retirement years - some of which will be covered at the seminars.
The first seminar will take place at the Avantidrome at 15 Hanlin Rd in Cambridge at 2.30pm and the second seminar will be at The Bill Gallagher Centre at the Wintec City Campus on Tristram St in Hamilton at 6.30pm.
The panel of experts also includes two Cambridge financial planners Carey Church from Moneyworks and Janet Natta from Smart Money Advice. Lifetime Income CEO Ralph Stewart rounds out the panel.
People can book their place at the free seminars by calling 0800 255 621 or visiting lifetimeincome.co.nz.