Frequently Asked Questions

There are typically only two times in life when you will be able to withdraw your KiwiSaver savings 

1. For your retirement – when you reach the New Zealand superannuation age (which is currently 65).
2. For your first home – when you make a first home withdrawal.

You may also be able to make an early withdrawal as permitted by the KiwiSaver Act 2006 if you can evidence you meet the eligibility criteria. Other permitted early withdrawals include:

• Permanent Emigration (other than Australia)
• Trans-Tasman Transfer (to a complying Australian Super fund)
• Deceased Estate
• Significant Financial Hardship
• Serious Illness
• Life-shortening congenital conditions.

In order for a permitted withdrawal to be approved, a member who applies is required to provide supporting evidence necessary to establish their right to meet the criteria and make an early withdrawal.

Each withdrawal type has its own specified criteria, restrictions and assessment requirements as outlined in the KiwiSaver Act 2006. This includes some withdrawals that are required to be assessed and approved by the KiwiSaver Scheme’s supervisor, such as Significant Financial Hardship, Serious Illness and Life-shortening congenital conditions.

Please contact us on 0800 855 322 or info@generatekiwisaver.co.nz and we’d be more than happy to assist you in providing any further information around the different withdrawal processes and criteria.