How KiwiSaver works

The basics of how KiwiSaver works, and how it can help you.

KiwiSaver basics

Hear about the key features of KiwiSaver, including contributions, free money from the Government, funds and more.

[Text on screen: Ask an ANZ expert, how KiwiSaver works. Sam, KiwiSaver Expert – ANZ]

Sam: Wondering how KiwiSaver works, but don’t know who to ask? You’ve come to the right place. 

[Text on screen: KiwiSaver basics]

Sam: Let me guess, you’ve been enrolled in KiwiSaver a little while. You’ve set how much you want to contribute and your contributions come automatically out of your pay each month. 

[Video: Two mugs on the table in front of Sam. One labelled KiwiSaver, the other labelled Pay. The Pay mug has a pen in it. Sam puts two more pens into the Pay mug and one pen into the KiwiSaver mug]

[Text on screen: Not literal. Illustrative props only]

Sam: The amount you contribute from your pay is your call, and you can change it up or down any time. Your employer usually contributes 3% too.  

[Text on screen: 3% contributions, 4% contributions, 6% contributions, 8% contributions, 10% contributions]

Sam: Self-employed? You can make voluntary contributions. 

[Video: Sam puts another pen into the KiwiSaver mug]

Sam: Contribute a minimum of $1,042.86 each year, and the Government will give your balance a $521.34 top up. 

[Text on screen: $1042.86, $521.34]

Sam: KiwiSaver savings capitalise on one thing, time. It’s a long-term investment, so starting your savings young means you can really take advantage of returns on the money you’ve put in.

[Text on screen: Think long-term]

[Video: The KiwiSaver mug has many pens in it]

Sam: You can shift between growth or more conservative funds at any time.

[Text on screen: Text scrolls from ‘Conservative’ up to ‘Balanced’ up to ‘High Growth’ then down to ‘Balanced’ then up to ‘High Growth’]

Sam: Speaking of life events, you can also use your KiwiSaver savings for your first home.  

[Text on screen: KiwiSaver first home withdrawal]

Sam: It pays to review the fund you’re in every now and then. We have seven to choose from, so we’ll have one to match your circumstances. 

[Text on screen: Text scrolls up through ‘Cash Fund’, ‘Conservative Fund’, ‘Conservative Balanced Fund’, ‘Balanced Fund’, ‘Balanced Growth Fund’, ‘Growth Fund’ and ‘High Growth Fund’]

Plus, we’re always here to help you as well.

[Text on screen: ANZ logo. ANZ New Zealand Investments Limited is the issuer and manager of the ANZ KiwiSaver Scheme. PDS available at anz.co.nz]

Three great reasons to join KiwiSaver

KiwiSaver is an easy way to help you save for your future – and it has a range of benefits that make it even more worthwhile.

What makes up your KiwiSaver balance

Your contributions   +/- returns   - fees   +/- taxes   =   your KiwiSaver account


When you can withdraw your savings

You can withdraw your savings from your KiwiSaver account:


When you reach age 65

You can usually begin withdrawing your savings when you turn 65.



To buy your first home

If you’ve been a KiwiSaver member for three years and you’re buying your first home, you may be able to withdraw your savings.



If your circumstances change

You may be able to access your money early if you move overseas permanently, are experiencing significant financial hardship, or have a serious illness.


Choosing which fund to invest in

With each of the ANZ-managed KiwiSaver schemes, you have a choice of seven funds to invest in.

You can choose a fund by selecting from one of two options:

Why you should choose ANZ

Investment experience

Your KiwiSaver savings are looked after by a team with decades of experience both abroad and in New Zealand. 


Serious about responsible investing

We don’t just look at a company’s financial performance. We also look at environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors, because we believe these are important drivers of long-term investment risks and returns.


A focus on long-term performance

We focus on long-term performance and follow a consistent and disciplined process for managing investments.


Convenience and advice

You can keep track of your KiwiSaver savings alongside other ANZ accounts through ANZ Internet Banking and the ANZ goMoney app. Our team of qualified advisers provide free expert advice to support you on your financial journey.

From overseas: +64 9 356 4000

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Important information

ANZ New Zealand Investments Limited ('ANZ Investments') is the issuer and manager of the ANZ KiwiSaver Scheme and the ANZ Default KiwiSaver Scheme (together, the 'schemes'). Important information is available under terms and conditions. Download the guide and product disclosure statement.