37796 (2026). Hon Willow-Jean Prime to the Minister for Social Development and Employment

37796 (2026). Hon Willow-Jean Prime to the Minister for Social Development and Employment: Has the Ministry of Social Development and Employment informed any person receiving superannuation that they would have their superannuation ceased if they did not provide asset information?

Hon Louise Upston: I am advised by the Ministry of Social Development (the Ministry) that New Zealand Superannuation (NZS) is generally not income or asset tested. However, prior to 9 November 2020, a superannuitant could elect to receive NZS at an alternative rate that provided for a portion of payment to be paid in respect of a partner or spouse who did not qualify for NZS in their own right. This was known as the non-qualified partner rate of NZS. There are still couples who receive the non-qualified partner rate of NZS, which is income-tested. In some instances, the Ministry may request information about the couple’s assets where they produce or potentially produce income to make sure the correct rate of NZS is paid. If the requested information is not provided, the Ministry may stop payment of the NZS to the couple. NZS clients are also obligated to take reasonable steps to obtain any overseas pensions to which they may be entitled. Where a person receives an overseas pension, it will generally reduce the benefit, including NZ Super, on what is effectively a dollar-for-dollar basis. In some cases, the Ministry can require superannuitants to provide information as part of an application for an overseas pension. This information may include asset details. If a superannuitant does not provide the required information or take reasonable steps to obtain an overseas pension to which they may be entitled, the Ministry may stop payments.