Research has revealed insurance is a growing financial burden for New Zealanders

A Consumer survey shows it's now the fourth most significant pressure for households - behind housing, food and household debt.

Premium prices are climbing across house, contents, car and health insurance - with an increase in weather events contributing to rising costs.

Investigations team leader Rebecca Styles, says people are being priced out of essential cover.

She says as cost of living pressure continue we are going to see insurance be more unattainable to more people.