19 March 2005
For Immediate Release
Kiwisaver Scheme Fails to Address Savings Problem
The KiwiSaver Scheme announced by the Government today fails to address the real savings problem, says Spicers Wealth
Management’s Chief Economic Adviser Rozanna Wozniak.
“Although the KiwiSaver Scheme is described as primarily a retirement savings package, it would be more accurately
called a first home buyer’s scheme with a retirement savings option tagged on.”
“There is no incentive for existing home owners to join. Why would you join just to get the initial $1000 joining bonus
in 20 or 25 years time?”
Rozanna Wozniak says it is middle-income New Zealanders who ought to be saving more and are better placed to do so to
achieve the Government’s aim of boosting savings.”
“Dr Cullen needed to be decisive to change the behaviour of this group, but KiwiSaver will not do this.”
In the Budget today, Dr Cullen said KiwiSaver would start in April 2007 and automatically enroll in a savings scheme all
those aged 18 and over who are starting a new job. Members will chose from an approved list. Most other people between
the ages of 18 and 65 (including beneficiaries), and employees under the age of 18, can also choose to join.
ENDS