New Zealand’s Superannuation Program continues to provide crucial financial support for citizens aged 65 and above. These fortnightly payments are designed to help retirees manage their cost of living during retirement. For the year 2025, several updates have been introduced, including new rates, adjusted payment dates, and employer contribution details.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Superannuation in 2025—from payment schedules in March and April to updated eligibility and contributions.
What Is the NZ Superannuation Payment?
Superannuation is a state pension paid to New Zealand residents who meet specific age and residency criteria. This benefit, governed by the New Zealand Retirement Act 2001, supports eligible seniors with consistent, tax-adjusted income throughout retirement. It is not income-tested, meaning both working and non-working seniors can receive it.
The rates are reviewed annually to ensure alignment with inflation and cost of living. Living arrangements, marital status, and whether you receive overseas pensions may affect your exact payment.
Updated Superannuation Rates 2025 (Before Tax)
| Living Arrangement | Weekly | Fortnightly | Annual Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single (living alone or with dependent child) | $578.67 | $1,157.34 | $30,090.84 |
| Single (living with non-partner) | $532.43 | $1,064.86 | $27,686.36 |
| Couple (both eligible) | $439.79 each | $879.58 combined | $22,869.08 each |
| Couple (only one eligible) | $439.79 | $879.58 | $22,869.08 |
These are gross rates. For those with annual income of around $48,000, the net after-tax weekly payment is approximately $496.37 if living alone.
Superannuation Payment Dates for March and April 2025
NZ Super is paid fortnightly on Tuesdays. The official dates for upcoming months are as follows:
- March 2025: 12 March and 26 March
- April 2025: 9 April and 23 April
These dates are based on the typical biweekly cycle and are consistent with the established payment schedule for over a decade.
Contribution Requirements for Superannuation
For those still in the workforce, superannuation contributions continue through employer payments. Employers are required to contribute 15% of an employee’s base salary to their nominated super account. This retirement savings grows over time and supplements the public pension amount.
These contributions are critical for long-term retirement planning and are separate from the fortnightly pension payments issued after age 65.
Superannuation Payment Increases for 2025
To keep pace with inflation and rising costs, the New Zealand Government reviews pension amounts each year. The new benefit amounts for 2025 reflect the national inflation trend and aim to protect the purchasing power of seniors.
All increases will take effect starting 1 April 2025. The adjustments are expected to benefit all eligible pensioners, with higher weekly amounts replacing 2024’s rates.
Quarterly Superannuation Contribution Due Dates
Employers must ensure that super contributions are submitted on time, especially if dates fall on public holidays. The due dates for contributions in 2025 are:
- 28 April 2025 for Jan 1 to Mar 31 period
- 28 July 2025 for Apr 1 to Jun 30 period
Delays can result in penalties, so it’s essential to align employer payments with Inland Revenue’s schedules.
FAQs
Who is eligible for Superannuation in 2025?
You must be a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, aged 65 or older, and have lived in NZ for at least 10 years since age 20, including 5 years after age 50.
Are Superannuation payments income tested?
No. NZ Superannuation is not income tested. You can continue to work and still receive the benefit.
When are Superannuation payments made?
Payments are made every second Tuesday. In March 2025, the dates are 12 March and 26 March. For April 2025, they are 9 April and 23 April.
How much is the weekly payment for single retirees?
For single individuals living alone, the weekly gross amount is $578.67, which becomes $496.37 after tax for most income brackets.
Do both partners have to be eligible for full couple payments?
Yes. If only one partner qualifies, the couple still receives the reduced combined rate until both meet the eligibility.
What is the employer’s contribution to Superannuation?
Employers must contribute 15% of an employee’s base salary into their superannuation fund, separate from the government pension.
Will Superannuation payments increase in 2025?
Yes. A confirmed increase will take effect from 1 April 2025, with higher weekly amounts provided to align with inflation.
How do I check or manage my Superannuation payments?
Use the MyMSD online portal or contact Work and Income New Zealand for account management and support.
Click here to know more.
