Compulsory KiwiSaver could disadvantage low earners, NZIER warns

Monday 19 October 2026 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated Mon 19 Oct, 5:02pm

The New Zealand Institute of Economic Research warns that increasing KiwiSaver contribution rates or making the scheme compulsory may not improve household outcomes. Senior economist Roshen Kulwant suggests that requiring higher contributions could lead to debt for low-income earners who struggle to afford the extra savings.

How they headlined it

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1. RNZMon 19 Oct, 9:23am

   Higher KiwiSaver contribution rates could leave some worse off, NZIER warns (opens in new tab)

2. NZ HeraldMon 19 Oct, 5:02pm

   NZIER warns compulsory KiwiSaver could leave low earners worse off at retirement (opens in new tab)