Superannuation vs KiwiSaver: Can NZ Afford Retirement?

Thomas Scrimgeour, a researcher at the Maxim Institute, unpacks New Zealand's looming retirement income crunch as an ageing population and falling birth rates strain superannuation funding ahead of this year's election. He explains the difference between universal superannuation (paid from age 65 regardless of wealth or employment) and KiwiSaver, noting that employer and employee contributions have just risen to 3.5%, with National now backing a scheme it once opposed.

Thomas argues that with superannuation eating up half of New Zealand's $50 billion annual welfare spend, politicians must confront hard questions around raising the eligibility age or means-testing payments rather than chasing popularity. He urges individuals to plan deliberately for retirement rather than leaving it to chance, and calls on politicians to make bold, principled decisions for the country's long-term good rather than short-term electoral gain ([www.maxim.org.nz](https://www.maxim.org.nz)).

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