A Snapshot of Healthcare, Retirement & Taxation in New Zealand
New Zealand is known for its high quality of life, breathtaking natural landscapes, and safe, relaxed atmosphere. With friendly locals, strong education system, and beautiful outdoor activities—from daily beach walks to adventures in untouched nature — New Zealand is a popular destination for both short-term and long-term stays.
This page introduces a basic overview of key systems in New Zealand that may be helpful when considering relocation - healthcare, retirement, savings, and taxation.
1. Healthcare – Publicly Funded System
New Zealand provides publicly funded healthcare services. You may be eligible for these services if:
You hold a work visa valid for 2 years or more, or
You are an Australian citizen or permanent resident living (or intending to live) in NZ for at least 2 years.
If you don’t meet these conditions, you’ll need to cover your medical costs privately.
The ACC (Accident Compensation Corporation) covers treatment for personal injuries—regardless of your visa status.
While public healthcare is free or low-cost for eligible residents, many New Zealanders also opt for private health insurance to access faster treatment in private facilities.
For more details, visit the Health New Zealand website.
2. Retirement Pension – NZ Super
New Zealand Superannuation (NZ Super) is a government pension available to eligible residents aged 65 or older. To qualify, you must:
Be a New Zealand citizen or resident,
Be ordinarily living in New Zealand, and
Have lived in New Zealand for a minimum of 10 to 20 years since age 20 (some exceptions and additional rules apply).
Payments vary depending on your living situation and tax code, ranging approximately from $580 to $1,070 per fortnight.
For more information, visit the Work & Income website..
3. Retirement Savings – KiwiSaver
KiwiSaver is a voluntary, work-based savings scheme to help you prepare for retirement. It is available to:
New Zealand citizens or permanent residents who are living or normally living in New Zealand.
You can contribute 3% to 10% of your before-tax salary. Employers must also contribute a minimum of 3% to your KiwiSaver account.
4. Taxation in New Zealand
In New Zealand, the government collects revenue mainly through:
Individual income tax (10.5% to 39%)
Business income tax (28% for most companies)
Goods and Services Tax (GST) (15%)
According to the government, key attractions of New Zealand’s tax system include:
no inheritance tax
no general capital gains tax
no local or regional taxes (property owners do have to pay ‘rates’ to councils and local authorities)
no payroll tax
no social security tax
no general healthcare tax.
Ready to Start Your New Journey?
If you’re considering relocating to New Zealand, feel free to contact us. We’re here to support you.
NOTE : The information provided in this page is general information only and may change in the future. We are not authorised to assess individual eligibility or offer professional financial advice, but we may be able to refer you to qualified professionals.