KiwiSaver hardship withdrawals are at record highs
What's happening: Tens of thousands more New Zealanders are struggling under the cost of living crisis as KiwiSaver hardship withdrawals reach new highs. Both the number of Kiwis making withdrawals and the amount taken out have smashed last year’s figures in just 10 months. Inland Revenue data shows between July 2024 and April 2025, more than $389.4 million had been withdrawn from KiwiSaver for financial hardship reasons, up from $300.5m in the year to June 30, 2024. A total of 44,360 people had withdrawn money from KiwiSaver for hardship reasons, up from 32,480 in the previous financial year.
The response: David Verry, financial mentor at Auckland Central Budgeting and North Harbour Budgeting Services, said it was no surprise to see those figures. "Across the board we’re seeing increases in the number of people approaching us for KiwiSaver hardships," he said. "I’d have to say probably two out of three people that have approached me in recent times have been looking for KiwiSaver hardship withdrawals." Verry said some financial mentors have seen a doubling of those seeking withdrawals over the last two years. There were now people fronting up for their second round of hardships, he said.
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Poll: Should we be giving the green light to new mining projects? 💰🌲
The Environmental Protection Authority announced this week that a proposed mine in Central Otago (near Cromwell) is about to enter its fast-track assessment process. A final decision could come within six months, and if it’s approved, construction might start as early as mid-2026.
We want to know: Should mining projects like this move ahead?
Keen to dig deeper? Mike White has the scoop.
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53.5% Yes
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46.5% No
Auckland, why are we so excited about a new store? 🚗🛒
I think we’ve all seen the traffic notices and headlines about the new IKEA by now!
So here’s the question: why do we get so excited when a new store opens? Convenience? Curiosity? A reason for a weekend outing? We’d love to hear your thoughts!
Keen for an update? The Post has you covered
Aucklanders, we want to know: How are you feeling about the current property market?
New Zealand homeowners are now more likely to sell at a loss than at any time since 2013, and if you’re in Auckland or Wellington, the odds are even higher.
But there is a silver lining: buyers are still in a strong position when it comes to negotiating prices.
So we’re curious…
How are you feeling about the current property market?
If you’re keen to dive into the details, Deborah Morris breaks down all the latest insights.
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