If you’re planning to retire in New Zealand — or have recently moved here — it’s important to understand how the country’s government pension system works. Known as New Zealand Superannuation (NZ Super), this fortnightly payment can play a valuable role in your retirement income plan.
In this article, we break down the key features of NZ Super, including how much you can expect to receive, the updated eligibility rules, and how overseas pensions may affect your entitlement.
How Much Does NZ Super Pay?
NZ Super is a government-funded pension available to eligible residents aged 65 and over. It’s paid from general taxation — not something you “pay into” like a private or employer scheme — and continues for the rest of your life once you qualify.
As of the 2025 tax year:
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A single person living alone receives approximately $1,077 per fortnight after tax, or about $28,000 per year.
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If you live with someone else, you each receive $828 per fortnight, which comes to around $43,000 per year combined for a qualifying couple.
NZ Super payments are reviewed each April and adjusted for inflation and wage growth to maintain purchasing power. While helpful, the payment is relatively modest and is best seen as a foundation, not a full retirement income strategy.
Who Is Eligible for NZ Super?
To receive NZ Super, you must meet three key criteria:
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Be 65 years of age or older.
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Be a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident.
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Have lived in New Zealand for at least 10 years since age 20 — with 5 of those years after age 50.
However, starting 1 July 2024, the residency requirement is increasing in stages from 10 to 20 years by 2042. For example:
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If you were born in May 1969, your requirement will be 15 years.
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If you were born on or after 1 July 1977, you’ll need 20 years of residency to qualify.
You may be able to use time spent in certain countries to meet the residency test, thanks to Social Security Agreements New Zealand has with:
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Australia
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United Kingdom
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Canada
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Netherlands
(among others)
Unfortunately, the United States is not included, so time spent there won’t count toward your NZ Super eligibility.
What If You Receive an Overseas Pension?
NZ Super is not means-tested, and private pensions generally do not reduce your entitlement.
However, if you receive a government pension from another country that’s similar in nature to NZ Super (i.e., publicly funded retirement income), your NZ Super may be reduced on a dollar-for-dollar basis through the Direct Deduction Policy.
This is a critical consideration for migrants with pensions from countries like the UK, Canada, or the Netherlands.
How to Apply for NZ Super
NZ Super is not paid automatically — you must apply through Work and Income New Zealand (WINZ).
Key points to note:
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You can start your application up to 12 weeks before your 65th birthday.
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Applications are typically completed online at the WINZ website.
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NZ Super is not backdated, so delays in applying could mean missed payments.
It’s a good idea to prepare ahead of time, gather the necessary documentation, and apply as soon as you become eligible.
Plan Ahead With Confidence
Understanding how NZ Super works is a valuable step in building a secure and flexible retirement plan in New Zealand — especially for new migrants or returning Kiwis with overseas financial interests.
At Pacific Wealth, we specialise in helping international clients navigate the complexities of cross-border retirement planning. From pensions to tax strategies to investment advice, we’re here to help you make the most of your life in New Zealand.
📞 Want to learn more or discuss your personal situation?
Visit www.pacificwealth.co.nz to explore our services or book a free initial consultation.
