From 1 April 2026, some important updates to KiwiSaver will come into effect. These changes may seem small at first, but over time they can make a meaningful difference to how your savings grow.
Here’s what you need to know, and what it could mean for you.
A change to contribution rates
The default contribution rate for both employees and employers will increase from 3% to 3.5%.
This means that if you’re currently contributing at the default rate, a slightly higher portion of your pay will go into KiwiSaver, and your employer will match this increase.
At first glance, a 0.5% increase may not feel significant. But over time, even small changes in contributions can add up.
What could this look like in practice?
Let’s take a simple example.
If you earn $50,000 per year:
- At 3%, you contribute $1,500 annually
- At 3.5%, you contribute $1,750 annually
That’s an extra $250 per year from you, matched by an additional $250 from your employer. Over 10 years, that’s an extra $5,000 contributed, before any investment returns are considered.
Over longer timeframes, the difference can become more noticeable as your savings continue to be invested.
If you’d like to explore what this could look like for your own situation, you can use the calculators available on the Anglican Financial Care website.
You can choose to stay at 3%
If increasing your contribution rate doesn’t feel manageable right now, there is flexibility. You can apply for a temporary rate reduction to continue contributing at 3%.
This can be useful if:
- You’re managing short-term financial pressure
- You have other savings or debt repayment priorities
- Your circumstances change
You can apply for a reduction for between 3 and 12 months, and reapply if needed. Keep in mind, if you reduce your rate to 3%, your employer can too.
The easiest decision to make
When 1 April rolls around, take the simplest and easiest path – let it happen! By allowing this small change to occur, you reap the long-term rewards.
Letting 1 April roll past is the best way to grow your savings, no extra decisions, no extra effort because the change is automatic. This small increase now can create a meaningful long‑term impact.
Changes for younger members (aged 16–17)
From 1 April 2026, members aged 16 and 17 will also become eligible for employer contributions, provided they meet the usual criteria.
This means:
- If you’re working and contributing to KiwiSaver
- Your employer will also need to contribute
Previously, employer contributions were only required for those aged 18 to 65. This change recognises the value of starting early, helping younger members begin building their savings sooner.
Taking a moment to review your contributions
With these changes coming into effect, it may be a good time to check:
- What rate you’re currently contributing
- Whether an increase is manageable for you
- How your contributions align with your longer-term plans
For members of Christian KiwiSaver Scheme, contributions form part of a broader approach to investing – making thoughtful decisions about how we manage and grow what we’ve been given.
We’re here to help
If you have questions about these changes or how they apply to you, our Member Services team is here to help you understand your options. Contact us today!
The article above is for educational purposes only and is not financial advice. Please seek advice from a qualified financial adviser when making important decisions about your financial situation.
The New Zealand Anglican Church Pension Board trading as Anglican Financial Care are the manager and issuer of Christian KiwiSaver Scheme, The Retire Fund and The New Zealand Anglican Church Pension Fund. Product Disclosure Statements and Fund Updates are available here: https://angfincare.nz/news-and-knowhow/forms-and-documents/