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Getting Started with KiwiSaver — New Member Guide NZ

Updated

Starting with KiwiSaver is one of the best financial decisions most New Zealanders will make. If you’ve just started a new job, you were likely auto-enrolled automatically — but there’s more to getting set up properly than just letting payroll deductions happen.

Am I Already in KiwiSaver?

If you’ve started any job in New Zealand since 2007 and didn’t opt out, there’s a good chance you already have a KiwiSaver account. Check by logging into myIR — your current provider and balance are listed there under the KiwiSaver section.

If you’ve changed jobs, had periods overseas, or just lost track, see how to find a lost KiwiSaver account.

How Auto-Enrolment Works

When you start a new job, your employer is required to enrol you in KiwiSaver unless you’re already a member. Contributions begin at 3% from your first pay. You have a window of 2–8 weeks from the start of employment to opt out if you don’t want to join — after that window, you’re locked in until you qualify for a savings suspension (after 12 months of membership).

For most people, opting out is a mistake. The employer contribution of 3% is money you wouldn’t otherwise receive.

First Steps After Enrolling

  1. Find out which provider you’ve been assigned to — check myIR or your payslip
  2. Decide whether to stay with the default provider or switch — default allocations go to one of nine government-selected providers, but you can switch at any time
  3. Choose the right fund type — the default is balanced, which is appropriate for most members but not all
  4. Confirm your contribution rate — the minimum is 3%; higher rates significantly improve your retirement outcome
  5. Set up your myIR access — this is your central hub for tracking contributions and balance

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