KiwiSaver Calculator · Updated for 2025–2028 rules
The rules changed in 2025. Here’s what your contributions are worth now.
The Government’s contribution was halved on 1 July 2025. Default rates auto-rise to 3.5% from 1 April 2026, then 4% from 1 April 2028. The $180,000 income cap excludes high earners from the match. This tool answers, for you specifically: is contributing still worth it, and at what level.
Three inputs
Tell the calculator your situation.
Your situation under the new rules
Government contribution this year
$260.72
Max possible after 1 July 2025: $260.72
You're contributing $2,400 a year, comfortably clearing the $1,042.86 threshold needed for the full $260.72 govt match. The match is locked in.
Free money
You're getting the full match
Your current 3% rate means you contribute $2,400 this year, comfortably above the $1,042.86 minimum. You're getting every cent of the available match.
April 2026 auto-rise
+$400 per year
From 1 April 2026 the default rate auto-rises from 3% to 3.5% unless you opt for the temporary reduction. On your salary that's $400 a year out of your take-home, but $400 more from your employer too. By 1 April 2028 the rate hits 4%, adding $800 a year on top of today's contribution.
$180k income cap
$100,000 of headroom
Your income is below the $180,000 cap. The govt match still applies and recomputes annually. If you anticipate moving above the cap (promotion, bonus, two roles), build that into the calc.
Temporary reduction
Available from 1 Feb 2026
If cashflow gets tight, you can apply via myIR from 1 February 2026 to drop your contribution to 3% for 3-12 months. The reduction takes effect from 1 April 2026 at the earliest and auto-reverts at the end of the period. Useful for a known short-term squeeze (mortgage refix, parental leave, study), not as a default setting.
Smiths’ take
You're in a reasonable position on contributions. The next move with biggest impact is fund choice, worth a 30-minute review of whether your current scheme still fits your goals and risk tolerance.
The 2025–2028 timeline
Every change baked into this calculator.
1 July 2025
Government match halved
Matching rate cut from 50¢ to 25¢ per dollar contributed. Maximum annual government contribution dropped from $521.43 to $260.72. Source: Taxation (Budget Measures) Act 2025.
1 July 2025
$180,000 income cap on government match
If your taxable income is above $180,000 you no longer qualify for the government contribution at all. The income test is annual.
1 July 2025
16-17 year olds eligible
Members aged 16-17 can now receive the government contribution. Their employer-match obligation begins 1 April 2026.
1 February 2026
Temporary 3% reduction option opens
Members can apply via myIR to reduce their contribution to 3% (employer match will follow at 3%) for a period of 3-12 months. The reduction takes effect no earlier than 1 April 2026 and auto-reverts at the end of the period.
1 April 2026
Default rate rises to 3.5%
Employee and matching employer rates auto-rise from 3% to 3.5% of before-tax pay unless you actively opt to the temporary reduction.
1 April 2028
Default rate rises to 4%
Employee and matching employer rates auto-rise from 3.5% to 4%.