KiwiSaver

Your Path to Retirement and Homeownership

KiwiSaver is a government-supported retirement savings scheme designed to help New Zealanders build long-term financial security. Whether you’re saving for retirement or your first home, KiwiSaver offers unique benefits that make it worth reviewing regularly.

Key Benefits

• Employer Contributions
  If you’re employed and contributing from your salary or wages, your employer must contribute at least 3% of your gross pay, minus Employer Superannuation Contribution Tax (ESCT), as required under the KiwiSaver Act 2006.
• Government Contributions
  From 1 July 2025, eligible members aged 16 and over may receive up to $260.72 annually through the Member Tax Credit, provided they contribute at least $1,042.86 between 1 July and 30 June.
  • The Government now contributes 25 cents for every $1 you contribute (previously 50 cents).
  • Members earning over $180,000 annually are no longer eligible for this credit.
• First Home Withdrawal
  If you’ve been a KiwiSaver member for at least three years and meet eligibility criteria, you may be able to withdraw your contributions, your employer’s contributions, and investment returns to help purchase your first home.
• Independent Custody of Funds
  Your KiwiSaver investments are held in trust by a licensed supervisor, not the scheme provider. This ensures your funds are independently safeguarded, regardless of which provider you choose.

What You Should Know

• KiwiSaver is a regulated managed investment scheme under the Financial Markets Conduct Act 2013, overseen by the Financial Markets Authority (FMA).
• Your funds are generally locked in until age 65, with limited exceptions such as first home withdrawal or significant financial hardship.
• Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future returns. Investment decisions should reflect your goals, risk appetite, and time horizon.
• From 1 April 2026, the default employee and employer contribution rate will increase to 3.5%, and to 4% from 1 April 2028. Members can apply to Inland Revenue for a temporary rate reduction to remain at 3% for up to 12 months.