Frequently Asked Questions

KiwiSaver is designed to help you save for your retirement. Because of this, your savings are generally locked in until you reach the New Zealand Superannuation age (currently 65).

Withdrawing at retirement

Once you turn 65:

• You can withdraw some or all of your KiwiSaver savings.

• Any money left in your account will stay invested, and our team will continue to manage it for you.

For step-by-step information, see: How to apply for a retirement withdrawal 

Getting my KiwiSaver saving early:

If you’re buying your first home, experiencing significant financial hardship, moved overseas permanently (to a country other than Australia), have a serious illness or life-shortening congenital condition, you may be able to withdraw some or all of your savings early. 

Buying your first home

If you’re purchasing your first home, you may be able to use some of your KiwiSaver savings to help with your deposit or purchase price.

• Check if you’re eligible: What are the eligibility criteria to get a First Home Withdrawal? 

• Download the form: First Home Withdrawal Form

Significant financial hardship

If you’re struggling to meet essential living costs, you may be able to withdraw some of your KiwiSaver savings under financial hardship.

This may apply if you’re unable to pay for:

• Minimum living expenses (such as rent, mortgage, food, or utilities)

• Mortgage or rent arrears

• Medical or dental costs for you or a dependent

• Costs related to a serious illness or disability

You’ll need to provide supporting documents to show your financial situation.

• Learn more: Get in touch with our team today !

Moving to another country

If you’ve permanently emigrated to a country other than Australia and have lived there for at least 12 months, you may be able to withdraw your KiwiSaver savings.

• Learn more: How to apply for a Permanent Emigration withdrawal? 

• Download the form: Permanent Emigration Withdrawal Form

Serious illness

If you’ve been diagnosed with a illness, injury or disability that puts your life at serious and imminent risk of death or are permanently unable to work due to that health reason, you may be able to withdraw your savings under the serious illness criteria.

• Find out more: What is a serious illness withdrawal from KiwiSaver? 

• Download the form: Serious Illness Form

Life-shortening congenital condition

If you have a life-shortening congenital condition, such as Down syndrome or Huntington’s disease, you may be able to access your KiwiSaver savings earlier than age 65.

You can choose to:

• Make a one-off full withdrawal, or

• Start withdrawals at a younger age agreed upon with your provider.

You’ll need medical evidence confirming your condition and life expectancy.

• Learn more: What is a life-shortening congenital condition withdrawal? 

Download the form: Life-shortening Congenital Condition Form