Retirement can be a big change in life, especially when it comes to money. In New Zealand, people over 65 can get help from the government through a pension called New Zealand Superannuation, or NZ Super. This support helps retirees cover their everyday costs and live with more financial stability.
NZ Super is not like a private pension, where your payments depend on how much you saved or earned during your working life. Instead, it is a government-funded payment that every eligible senior receives, no matter their job history or savings. This means even if you’re still working or have other income, you can still get NZ Super.
The payment amount depends on your living situation, and it’s updated regularly to keep up with prices and wages. It is paid every two weeks, and you can apply for it before you turn 65. This guide will explain the 2025 payment amounts, key dates, how to apply, and what happens if you move overseas.
What is NZ Super and Who Can Get It?
NZ Super is the main retirement payment for people living in New Zealand. It is available to anyone aged 65 or older who meets certain rules. The best part is that it does not depend on your income or how much you worked before. It’s paid through general taxes and is meant to give all retirees a basic income.
To qualify for NZ Super in 2025, you must:
- Be at least 65 years old
- Be a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident
- Be living in New Zealand, the Cook Islands, Niue, or Tokelau when applying
- Have lived in New Zealand for at least 10 years since turning 20, with at least 5 years after age 50
The government plans to slowly increase the residency rule from 10 years to 20 years by 2042. This may affect future applicants.
2025 Payment Rates Based on Living Situations
How much you get from NZ Super in 2025 depends on who you live with and your tax situation. Below are the after-tax amounts based on the “M” tax code, which is used if NZ Super is your only income:
These amounts may change every year due to inflation and government updates. If you earn money from other sources, your total tax may change how much you receive in your bank account.
Pension Payout Dates in 2025
NZ Super is paid every two weeks, normally on a Tuesday. If the payment date is a public holiday, you may receive your money earlier. Here are the expected payment dates for 2025:
It’s a good idea to write these dates down or set reminders to manage your budget. If your payment doesn’t arrive on time, you should call Work and Income right away.
How to Start Your NZ Super Application
You can apply for NZ Super up to 12 weeks before your 65th birthday. The steps are simple and quick:
- Check your eligibility on the Work and Income website.
- Prepare your documents, such as:
- Passport or birth certificate
- Bank account details
- IRD (tax) number
- Partner’s information (if applying as a couple)
- Apply online or go to a local Work and Income office.
- Wait for processing—this usually takes 2 to 3 weeks.
- Start receiving payments once approved.
To avoid delays, apply early. If you apply late, your first payment might be delayed.
What If You Leave New Zealand?
Your NZ Super payments might change if you move to another country. It depends on:
- The country you move to
- How long you stay overseas
- Whether NZ has a social security agreement with that country
For example, New Zealand has agreements with Australia and the UK. If you move there, you may still receive full or partial NZ Super payments. But if you go to a country without such an agreement, your payments might stop after 26 weeks.
Before moving, always contact Work and Income to understand how your pension will be affected.