KiwiSaver has changed. Here's what it means for you
A smaller government contribution, higher default rates and new rules for 16 and 17 year olds, in plain English.
KiwiSaver has had its biggest set of changes in years. Some took effect in July 2025, some on 1 April 2026, and one more is on the way in 2028. Here's what changed and how Worthberry handles it.
The government contribution halved
Since 1 July 2025, the government puts in 25 cents for every dollar you contribute, up to $260.72 a year. To get the full amount, you need to contribute $1,042.86 between 1 July and 30 June. Before the change it was 50 cents per dollar, up to $521.43.
If your taxable income is over $180,000 a year, you no longer get the government contribution at all.
Default contributions went up
| From | Default for you | Matching from your employer |
|---|---|---|
| Before 1 April 2026 | 3% | 3% |
| 1 April 2026 | 3.5% | 3.5% |
| 1 April 2028 | 4% | 4% |
If you were already contributing more than 3%, your rate stays the same, but your employer's goes up to 3.5% if it was at 3%. You can apply to stay at 3% for between three and twelve months, and apply again when that ends. Your employer can choose to match the lower rate.
16 and 17 year olds
Members aged 16 and 17 have qualified for the government contribution since 1 July 2025. Since 1 April 2026, they also qualify for employer contributions if they meet the other conditions.
How Worthberry helps
- The KiwiSaver page shows how much you've put in since 1 July and how far you are from the full government contribution.
- It shows your employer's contribution after tax, and what changes if you contribute more.
- Your projection to 65 uses your current rates, so it changes when your rates do.
This is general information, not financial advice. Inland Revenue has the official detail at ird.govt.nz/kiwisaver-changes. If you're weighing up what to do, talk to a licensed financial adviser.