How much is Best Start per week and how long can I get it?
Best Start is up to NZ$77 a week, or a maximum of NZ$4,041 a year. You can get it for the first 3 years, until your child's 3rd birthday. In the years when it depends on income, the amount reduces if your family income is over NZ$79,000 a year.
Official figures
- Weekly amount
- Up to NZ$771
- Maximum per year
- NZ$4,0411
- How long you can get it
- The first 3 years after your child is born, until your child's 3rd birthday1
- Income threshold
- If your family income is over NZ$79,000 a year, the NZ$77 a week starts to reduce1
- How much it reduces
- 21% of your family income above NZ$79,000 (the abatement rate)1
Official sources
- Best StartInland Revenue · ird.govt.nz
- Child IRD numbersInland Revenue · ird.govt.nz
- Registering a new baby and getting a birth certificateGovt.nz · govt.nz
- Residency requirementsInland Revenue · ird.govt.nz
Read the full guide: Best Start payment for new babies →
People also ask
- What payments can I get from the government when my baby is born?
- At what family income does Best Start start to reduce?
- My baby is born in 2026. Can I still get the full Best Start amount?
- Can I apply for Best Start when I register my baby's birth?
- Can I get Best Start while I'm on paid parental leave?
- We are on work visas. Can we get Best Start for our new baby?
Answers are based on official New Zealand government pages. Check the official source before you act. This is not immigration, legal or tax advice.
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