The 2025 Budget announced a range of KiwiSaver changes. If you’re a KiwiSaver member it’s important to understand how KiwiSaver works for you – whether saving for retirement or your first home. The key changes are outlined here.

Expansion to 16 and 17-year-olds

From 1 July 2025, 16 and 17-year-olds will be eligible for the Government contribution. Members will need to contribute $1,042.86 in any year from 1 July to 30 June to receive the full Government contribution.

KiwiSaver members aged 16 and 17 will also be eligible to receive compulsory employer contributions from 1 April 2026. The member will need to be a KiwiSaver member and make employee contributions. This group will also need to enrol in KiwiSaver as the age for auto-enrolment will remain at 18 years of age.

Reduction in the Government contribution

From 1 July 2025, there are 2 changes to the Government contribution that are explained below.

  1. The Government contribution is being halved from the current level. To receive the full annual contribution of $260.72, members will need to contribute $1,042.86 in that year.
  2. Members with earnings over $180,000 per year will not be eligible for the Government contribution.

It’s important to note that the changes to the Government contribution on 1 July 2025 will not impact on the Government contributions calculated for the year 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2025.

Increase in contribution rates

The default employee and employer contribution rate of 3% will rise to 3.5% from 1 April 2026. This will increase again in April 2028 to 4%.

Members who want to stay at 3% will be able to apply for a temporary exemption. Members would be able to apply to Inland Revenue (via phone or myIR) for a temporary rate reduction.

Speak with a MAS Adviser

Everyone’s financial journey is different, and we’re here to help our investors create the financial future that is right for them. Our MAS Advisers can help you with your investment decisions, at no additional cost. 

If you would like to chat with a MAS Adviser, please phone 0800 800 627 or email info@mas.co.nz.

Medical Funds Management Limited is the issuer and manager of the MAS KiwiSaver Scheme. The Product Disclosure Statements are available at MAS KiwiSaver Scheme PDS. MAS is a financial advice provider. Our financial advice disclosure statement is available by visiting mas.co.nz or by calling 0800 800 627.

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