Has the KiwiSaver contribution rate gone up to 3.5%?
Yes. From 1 April 2026, the default rate rose from 3% to 3.5% for both employees and employers. It applies to every payday on or after 1 April. If you were contributing 3%, your rate changes automatically and you do not need to do anything. From 1 April 2028, the default rate will rise again to 4%.
Official figures
- Who can join
- New Zealand citizens and permanent residents who live or normally live in New Zealand2
- Automatic enrolment
- If you are eligible, start working for a new employer, and are aged 18 to 652
- Employee contribution rates you can choose
- 3.5%, 4%, 6%, 8% or 10% of your pay before tax; if you do not choose, the default is 3.5%2
- Minimum employer contribution
- 3.5% (except where the employer already contributes for you to another superannuation scheme)2
- Default rate from 1 April 2028
- Rises from 3.5% to 4% for both employees and employers1
Official sources
- KiwiSaver changesInland Revenue · ird.govt.nz
- How KiwiSaver worksInland Revenue · ird.govt.nz
- Getting the KiwiSaver government contributionInland Revenue · ird.govt.nz
- Getting my KiwiSaver savings for my first homeInland Revenue · ird.govt.nz
Read the full guide: KiwiSaver retirement savings →
People also ask
- What is KiwiSaver and should I join?
- I was put into KiwiSaver automatically at my new job. How much will come out of my pay each month?
- How much do I need to save each year to get the full government contribution?
- Can I still get the KiwiSaver government contribution if I earn over NZ$180,000 a year?
- Can I use my KiwiSaver to buy my first home in New Zealand?
- How do I take out my KiwiSaver money when I turn 65?
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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