People who are eligible for KiwiSaver are New Zealand citizens or people entitled to live (or normally live) in New Zealand. The KiwiSaver scheme is designed as a long-term investment to help you save for your retirement. That is why generally, you cannot access your KiwiSaver until you are 65, however, you may be eligible for early withdrawal for one of the following reasons:
- First home purchase (or second home, with exceptions)
- Permanent relocation overseas
- Significant financial hardship
- Serious illness
- Life-shortening congenital condition
You will need to speak to your KiwiSaver provider directly to check that you are eligible to withdraw early for one of the above reasons and to get pre-approval.