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What payments can I get from the government when my baby is born?

You may be able to get Best Start, which is part of Working for Families. It gives your family up to NZ$77 a week for the first 3 years after your child is born. You must be the baby's main carer and meet the residence requirements. You cannot get Best Start and paid parental leave at the same time.

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From the guide “Best Start payment for new babies”Last verified Official pages checked daily

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

  1. Best StartInland Revenue · ird.govt.nz
  2. Child IRD numbersInland Revenue · ird.govt.nz
  3. Registering a new baby and getting a birth certificateGovt.nz · govt.nz
  4. Residency requirementsInland Revenue · ird.govt.nz

Read the full guide: Best Start payment for new babies →

People also ask

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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