Except in special circumstances, your KiwiSaver savings are locked in until you reach the age of NZ Super eligibility.
How does KiwiSaver work?
Withdrawing your savings
You can't get at your KiwiSaver savings until you're eligible for NZ Super - currently, that's at 65. You also have to invest for at least five years, so if you start at age 62 you'll have to wait until you're 67 to withdraw your savings.
You may be able to withdraw your savings earlier if you suffer significant financial hardship or serious illness, go overseas permanently, or want to buy a first home.
If you die before you reach 65, your savings will be paid to your estate. If you move permanently overseas, you can withdraw your KiwiSavings 12 months after you leave (this includes the $1000 government kick-start contribution but not the annual tax credit).
Some KiwiSaver providers will let you take your money out in instalments. Others will only allow withdrawal.
Important
Like you, we can't predict the future - which means we can't guarantee the performance of any savings scheme. Nor do we endorse any specific KiwiSaver provider or scheme. ConsumerSaver is a good starting point - but, before you commit, we strongly suggest you seek independent financial advice. See our full disclaimer.
