According to the latest RNZ-Reid Research poll, a majority of New Zealand voters are against raising the superannuation age from 65. The poll, conducted in July 2026, found that 68% of respondents opposed any increase, while 24% supported it and 8% were unsure. The survey of 1,000 eligible voters has a margin of error of Β±3.1%.
The poll also indicated strong support for making KiwiSaver contributions compulsory, with 62% of respondents backing the idea. This comes as the National Party has proposed gradually lifting the superannuation age to 67, a policy that faces significant public resistance.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has defended the proposal, arguing it is necessary to ensure the long-term sustainability of the superannuation system. However, opposition parties, including Labour and the Greens, have criticized the plan, saying it would hurt older workers.
The poll results highlight the political challenge for National as it seeks to implement the policy before the next election. The government has not yet set a timeline for the change, but the issue is expected to be a key battleground in the 2027 campaign.
