When you join KiwiSaver for the first time, the default contribution rate is 3.5% for both employees and employers, with payments made automatically each time you're paid your salary/wages.
You can choose to contribute more - 4%, 6%, 8% or 10% - by notifying your employer or updating your rate through MyIR.
Matching employer contributions of 3.5% are mandatory for employees aged 16 to 65. Some employers may contribute more or continue contributions beyond that age range.
Recent policy changes mean the default contribution rates are gradually increasing. They rose from 3% to 3.5% on 1 April 2026, and will increase again to 4% from 1 April 2028.
We notify the IRD once we've processed your application, and they'll send your employer a letter informing them that you've joined a KiwiSaver Scheme. It will also tell them to start making contributions. This process can take some time, so to avoid ...
If you've been in KiwiSaver for 12 months, are aged 16 to 65, live mainly in NZ, have contributed at least $1,043 between 1 July and 30 June, AND don’t earn more than $180,000 taxable income per year, you're eligible to receive the full government ...
When you turn 65 you're eligible for NZ Superannuation and to withdraw your KiwiSaver funds. If you choose to make a KiwiSaver withdrawal, you can set up regular or one off withdrawals at any time. You’ll find the required forms by: Logging into the ...
To update your employee contribution rate from your salary/wages, please contact your employer or make the change via your myIR login. The available rates are 3.5%, 4%, 6%, 8% or 10%.
You may be eligible to withdraw most of your KiwiSaver savings to help buy your first home, if you meet all of the following criteria: You’ve been a KiwiSaver member for at least three years You’re buying a house or land in New Zealand You intend to ...