NZ Super Rate Calculator 2025-26

What Is NZ Superannuation?

NZ Superannuation (NZ Super) is New Zealand's universal government pension, paid by Work and Income to eligible residents aged 65 and over. Unlike many countries, it is not means-tested — you receive the same base rate regardless of your income, savings, or assets. As of 2025-26, the gross rates are set so that the after-tax payment at the M tax code equals at least 66% of the average ordinary time weekly wage for a couple, and at least 40% for a single person living alone. The 2025-26 annual adjustment, based on CPI and wage movements, resulted in rates effective from 1 April 2025.

Eligibility Rules for NZ Super

To qualify for NZ Superannuation you must be 65 or older, be a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, and normally live in New Zealand. You must also have lived in New Zealand, the Cook Islands, Niue, or Tokelau for at least 10 years since age 20, with at least 5 of those years since age 50. Time spent in certain countries with social security agreements (Australia, Canada, UK, Ireland, Greece, Netherlands, Denmark, Jersey, Guernsey) may count towards your residency requirement. If you have lived overseas for extended periods, you may receive a deduction known as an overseas pension deduction.

2025-26 NZ Super Rates Explained

The payment rates differ by living situation. Single people living alone receive the highest per-person rate because they bear all household costs independently. Single people sharing accommodation receive a lower rate. Couples (married, civil union, or de facto) where both partners qualify share a combined household rate. If only one partner is 65+ and eligible, the qualifying partner receives the single-sharing rate and may be able to apply for a subsidy under the "one-partner" provisions. Tax codes affect your net (after-tax) payment: M is the standard code, ME applies if Super is your only income and you qualify for the independent earner tax credit, and M SL applies if you have a student loan.

How NZ Super Works With Other Income

Because NZ Super is not means-tested, you can continue working after 65 and receive your full Super entitlement simultaneously. However, the combined income is taxable. Your employer withholds PAYE on your wages, and Work and Income withholds PAYE on your Super separately — so ensure you use the correct secondary tax code (S or SH) on one of them to avoid an end-of-year tax bill. KiwiSaver contributions are not compulsory once you are 65, but you may choose to continue contributing voluntarily. NZ Super is counted as income for Working for Families and other income-tested payments, so receiving Super may affect entitlements like the accommodation supplement.