New Zealanders are being urged not to let their insurance lapse, as premiums continue to rise at recent pace

The cost of insurance has risen 14-percent in the year to March, with home insurance up 24.6 percent and contents insurance up 28-percent.

A recent Consumer NZ survey found more than two in three respondents are concerned about the rise.

Campaigns Advisor Abby Damen says almost one in ten admit to letting a policy lapse due to the high costs.

She says people can choose a more limited policy, increase their excess, opt for a multi-policy discount, or try to pay up front once a year.