From April 1, 2025, retired New Zealanders are receiving a confirmed increase in their fortnightly Superannuation payments, part of the government’s annual adjustment based on wage growth and inflation. This nz superannuation increase begins update ensures that Super keeps pace with the cost of living, benefiting over 900,000 Kiwis who rely on these payments during retirement.
This isn’t speculation or proposed legislation—the new rates are active and being paid out to eligible pensioners across the country. The latest rates and eligibility in 2025 reflect real-time changes under the Ministry of Social Development’s (MSD) current pension policy.
What Is New Zealand Superannuation?
NZ Superannuation (NZ Super) is a government pension paid to eligible residents aged 65 and older. It is:
Non-income tested (but taxed based on personal tax code)
Paid fortnightly
Administered by the Ministry of Social Development (MSD)
Adjusted every April based on average wage growth or Consumer Price Index (CPI), whichever is higher
The latest 2025 increase follows significant inflation in 2024 and rising energy and housing costs, ensuring older Kiwis can maintain purchasing power.
NZ Super Rates as of April 2025
Below is the updated NZ Superannuation payment schedule for 2025, showing fortnightly before-tax payments based on living arrangements and relationship status:
| Category | Fortnightly (Before Tax) | Fortnightly (After Tax – M Code) |
|---|---|---|
| Single – Living Alone | NZ$1,095.40 | NZ$949.76 |
| Single – Sharing | NZ$1,010.60 | NZ$878.60 |
| Married/Civil Union (Each) | NZ$847.50 | NZ$737.50 |
| Married/Civil Union – 1 Qualifies | NZ$847.50 (for one) | NZ$737.50 |
These new nz super rates 2025 are already being disbursed as of the April payment cycle, with direct deposits processed through Work and Income.
Who Is Eligible for NZ Super in 2025?
Eligibility remains unchanged from 2024 but is subject to the upcoming age increase scheduled from July 2025 (covered in the previous article). To qualify for Super:
You must be 65 years or older
Be a legal resident of New Zealand
Have lived in NZ for at least 10 years since age 20, with 5 years after age 50
Be residing in New Zealand at the time of application (or qualify under portable Super rules)
The superannuation eligibility nz requirements are verified through identity checks, immigration history, and residence status.
If you’re not yet receiving NZ Super but meet the age and residency requirements, you can apply online through MyMSD or visit a local Work and Income office.
Tax Codes and How They Affect Your Super Payments
NZ Super is taxable income, and your tax code will affect how much you receive after deductions. Most pensioners fall under:
M: Standard rate with no secondary income
S: Used if you have other income (e.g., part-time job, investments)
SH/SAE: Higher brackets for high earners or multiple income sources
Make sure your tax code is correct in your IRD account to avoid over- or under-payments. You can update your tax code through MyIR or with assistance from MSD.
Can I Receive Other Benefits with NZ Super?
Yes. NZ Super can be combined with other supports, especially for low-income or high-need individuals:
Accommodation Supplement – for help with rent or board
Disability Allowance – for ongoing health-related costs
Winter Energy Payment – from May to October (extra $31.82/week for singles, $49.71 for couples)
Veteran’s Pension – if you served in qualifying military operations
You can check your combined eligibility and payment amounts using the Work and Income “Check What You Might Get” tool online.
What If I’m Moving or Living Overseas?
Under New Zealand’s portable pension policy, you may still receive NZ Super while living abroad if:
You’ve lived in New Zealand for 20+ years, or
You’ve lived in another country with a Social Security Agreement with NZ (e.g., Australia, Canada, the UK)
However, the amount may be reduced depending on how long you’ve lived in each country and any overseas pension income.
It’s crucial to notify MSD of any change in residency to avoid overpayments or legal issues.
FAQs
How much is the NZ Superannuation payment in 2025?
From April 2025:
Single living alone: NZ$1,095.40 before tax
Married/Civil union (each): NZ$847.50 before tax
These are the latest rates and eligibility in 2025, paid fortnightly.
When did the new rates come into effect?
The nz superannuation increase begins with the April 2, 2025 payment cycle, continuing every two weeks.
Can I receive NZ Super and still work?
Yes. NZ Super is not income-tested, but you may pay higher tax if you earn above certain thresholds.
Will my payments be taxed?
Yes. Your tax rate depends on your total annual income and declared tax code.
Do I need to reapply to get the new rate?
No. If you’re already receiving Super, the new rate is applied automatically to your next scheduled deposit.
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