KiwiSaver

Te Ara Ahunga Ora was asked to look at aspects of KiwiSaver and private savings as part of the 2022 RRIP. This included engaging the financial services sector to identify non-government initiatives to encourage more people to save.

A working group was established, made up of National Strategy for Financial Capability partners and other private sector representatives, who put together a set of recommendations in response. The Retirement Commissioner supports actioning the recommendations in the 'Encouraging Savings' report. 

In relation to KiwiSaver, Te Ara Ahunga Ora was required to look at the impacts on temporary migrants not being able to contribute until their residency status changed. The AUT report found migrants could be missing out on up to $50,000 worth of retirement savings by not being able to access KiwiSaver. 

Further research conducted by MJW, revealed 40% of KiwiSaver members have a balance of less than $10,000, with women on average having lower KiwiSaver balances than men across all age groups.

Ongoing improvements to KiwiSaver and additional private saving and education are required to ensure better retirement outcomes for all New Zealanders.