As specialists in KiwiSaver and retirement planning, Rede Advisers can help you get the most out of retirement savings schemes and ensure that they fit into your overall plans.  

What is KiwiSaver?

KiwiSaver is a work-based savings scheme which is voluntary to join, but compulsory for employers to facilitate. The government created the framework for KiwiSaver to help New Zealanders financially prepare for retirement, with the management of KiwiSaver investments supplied by professional managers.

It's an easy way to save, with your contributions deducted directly from your gross salary or wages at a rate of either 3%, 4%, 6%, 8% or 10%. You can also make voluntary contributions if you are not receiving a salary (e.g. if you are self-employed or for your children / grandchildren).

If you have been automatically enrolled in KiwiSaver you have eight weeks from starting your new job to decide if you want to remain a member of KiwiSaver or opt out.

If you are employed, you are also be entitled to a matching employer contribution of 3%.

The following chart shows the flows of contributions into your KiwiSaver investment:

Your KiwiSaver investment is managed separate from your employer and the Government, with Inland Revenue acting as the collection agent for contributions, paying them to your KiwiSaver provider.   

As these funds are intended for your retirement, your savings are generally "locked in." You can access your savings when you qualify for New Zealand Superannuation (currently 65), or you can withdraw your money earlier in certain circumstances, including:

- for the purchase of a first home

- serious financial hardship

- serious terminal illness

- permanent emigration

Starting KiwiSaver as early as you can could make a big difference to your quality of life later on. Joining KiwiSaver is easy, through automatic enrolment when starting a new job, or by opting in and choosing to join.  As your KiwiSaver balance grows, the importance of choosing the right manager, in the right investment mix and making the appropriate level of contributions becomes more important.  

Why Join KiwiSaver?

Whether you are already saving or are about to start, the government helps you save for your future by providing a number of benefits as a KiwiSaver member. It's designed to be hassle-free so it's easy to maintain a regular savings habit to provide the lifestyle that you desire in retirement.

Here are some of the key features and benefits:

• The Government will match your contributions with up to $10 per week ($521.43 p.a.) providing you contribute $20 per week ($1,042.86 per year).
• Minimum contribution of 3% if you are on PAYE or no minimums if you are self-employed, not working or a child.  If you are aged over 18 and self-employed, you can (should) make voluntary contributions.
• Compulsory matching employer contributions of 3% of salary, less employer superannuation contribution tax (ESCT).
• After contributing for 3 years, you could withdraw both your contributions and those of your employer and most of the Government contributions, to use towards the purchase of a first home.
• You can transfer Australian Superannuation savings to your New Zealand KiwiSaver.

With the significant benefits that the government has put in place for KiwiSaver members, over 3 million New Zealanders are already benefiting from KiwiSaver. If you haven't joined KiwiSaver, or wish to review your existing KiwiSaver savings, please contact us today.