NZ Super Changes (April 1st): How much more will you actually get?

As we approach April 1, 2026, over 900,000 New Zealanders are preparing for the Annual General Adjustment to their Superannuation payments. With the cost of living—particularly fuel and groceries—hitting record highs this year, many have been eyeing the headline-grabbing figure of $850 per week.

But who actually gets that amount, and what does the increase look like for everyone else? Here is the breakdown of the new rates “in the hand.”

The Headline: Where does the $850 come from?

The widely discussed $850/week figure refers to the combined weekly net payment for a couple where both partners qualify for NZ Super (tax code M).

Starting April 1, the combined fortnightly payment for these couples is set to rise from $1,656.68 to approximately $1,708.20. This brings the combined weekly total to roughly $854, finally pushing the “Couple” rate past that $850 milestone.

The 2026 Rate Breakdown (Net Weekly)

Based on the 3.11% Consumer Price Index (CPI) adjustment, here is what you can expect in your bank account compared to last year:

Note: These figures assume the standard ‘M’ tax code and no additional income.

Why is it increasing?

By law, NZ Super is adjusted every April 1st to ensure it keeps pace with either inflation (CPI) or the average wage. For 2026, the 3.11% lift reflects the average price increases Kiwis faced throughout 2025. While any increase is welcome, many advocacy groups argue that with $4.00 petrol and rising rents, this “catch-up” payment only covers the inflation that has already occurred, rather than providing extra breathing room.

Important: Early Payment Alert

Because Easter Monday falls on April 6, 2026, Work and Income has confirmed that the first increased payment (due April 7) will actually be paid early on Friday, April 3.

The “Retirement Gap”

Even with these increases, the latest Massey University Retirement Expenditure Guidelines suggest a “no-frills” lifestyle for a single person in a major city now costs closer to $795 per week. This leaves a gap of roughly $240 per week that retirees must cover through KiwiSaver, savings, or part-time work.