Retirement Relief: Age Stays at 65

New Zealand’s retirement landscape is changing, and this week’s announcement has brought a real sense of relief for many - especially those in physically demanding jobs like farming. The government has confirmed it will not lift the retirement age to 67. Instead, a new, more stable superannuation framework will roll out from next year.

For anyone worried about having to work longer than planned, this offers certainty and a bit more breathing room.

What’s Staying the Same

• Retirement age stays at 65. No move to 67.

• Your NZ Super will continue to increase each year, based on both wages and inflation.

What’s Changing

• A new rule means the age can’t be raised without a full parliamentary review.

• People aged 65+ will be able to earn more from work without reducing their Super.

• More support will be available for those who can’t physically keep working right up to 65.

• Clearer residency rules for migrants will arrive in 2026.

• Couples and singles will continue to receive different rates, and these will be updated under the new system.

Why the Change?

Feedback showed that raising the age would hit people in tough, hands-on roles the hardest — including many in the rural sector, as well as Māori, Pasifika, and sole parents. These groups often have lower life expectancy and fewer options to keep working later in life.

What This Means for You

• You won’t need to plan for retirement at 67 — the age remains 65.

• Your payments are safe and will continue to climb each year.

• If you choose to keep working past 65, you’ll have more flexibility and won’t be penalised as quickly.

• If health or circumstances make working until 65 difficult, new transition supports will help bridge the gap.