It's not always easy to get on top of our money worries, but it can be done. And learning about money is a great place to start, because knowledge is power.
Simplicity MD and Co-founder, Sam Stubbs, teamed up with publisher Robbie Burton, to produce a simple guide to money for all New Zealanders - Money Made Simple.
In this easy-to-read guide, Sam reveals three simple truths and shares eight golden rules, which can help Kiwis take control of their finances and future.
In 2022, we gave away thousands of copies of the book to members across the country. If you didn't manage to pick up a copy, or would like to share the book with friends and family, you can now find the e-book here.
Don't have time to sit down and read the book? You can listen to the book instead, read by Sam himself!
You can hear the introduction below and listen to the whole audiobook on SoundCloud.
The information below outlines changes made to the KiwiSaver scheme, announced in May as part of Budget 2025. These updates affect eligibility, contribution rates, and government incentives - and will also impact some of the examples and calculations featured in Chapter 4.
What’s changing in KiwiSaver?
1. Minimum contribution rates are increasing
What: The minimum contribution rates for both employees and employers will increase from 3% to 3.5%on 1 April 2026, and again to 4% on 1 April 2028.
Who’s affected: Employers and contributing employees. Those on a total remuneration package may see the increases come out of their existing pay, not as an added benefit.
Impact: While take-home pay may drop slightly, most people will benefit over the long term.
2. Government contribution is being reduced
What: From 1 July 2025, the maximum annual government contribution will halve from $521.43 to $260.72. It will also be removed entirely for members earning over $180,000.
Who’s affected: All KiwiSaver members, especially low- to middle-income earners, for whom the government top-up makes up a larger share of savings.
Impact: To get the full government contribution, members will still need to contribute at least $1,042.86 annually. Even though the incentive is smaller, it’s still worth claiming and can add up significantly with compounding over time.
3. Temporary option to reduce contributions
What: From February 2026, members will be able to apply to Inland Revenue to temporarily reduce their contributions back to 3% (the current rate) for up to 12 months.
Who’s affected: Employees who are struggling with cost-of-living pressures.
Impact: This offers short-term flexibility, but may also lower employer contributions and slow your long-term savings growth.
4. Full KiwiSaver benefits extended to 16 and 17-year-olds
What: From 1 July 2025, 16 and 17 year olds will qualify for government contributions provided they meet the other requirements. From 1 April 2026, they’ll also be eligible for employer contributions.
Who’s affected: Young people entering the workforce.
Impact: A great opportunity for young people to start building long-term savings early and benefit from decades of compounding returns.
For more info check out:
Recalculating route: A guide to the 2025 KiwiSaver changes
Money Made Simple Podcast - MMS #51 KiwiSaver changes explained
NZ Herald 5 August 2022
The truth about money: Sam Stubbs on how to live a rich life
RNZ Afternoons with Jessie 10 August 2022
Sam Stubbs on giving away his Money Made Simple book
NewstalkZB interview 14 August 2022
Sam joins Francesca Rudkin on the Sunday Session
Book Review - Booksellers Aotearoa New Zealand
Simplicity gives away thousands of books to help raise Kiwis’ financial literacy
Book Review - NZ Book Lovers 18 August 2022
Money Made Simple by Sam Stubbs