Job loss at 50, 55 or 60+: age discrimination, KiwiSaver and NZ Super

First: it's not just you

Losing your job later in your career can feel brutal, with fewer years to rebuild and a sense that you've been passed over. You bring experience, judgement and reliability. Many employers value that, even when some bias exists. You also have legal protections.

Your rights

• Age is a prohibited ground of discrimination under the Human Rights Act. It covers job ads, interviews, pay, training and dismissal.
• An employer generally cannot force you to retire. Exceptions include some agreements made before 1 April 1992 that set a retirement age, roles with a retirement age set by law (such as judges and coroners), a genuine occupational qualification, and certain specific occupations; these exceptions don't apply if the employer could reasonably adjust so another person covers the duties.
• Redundancy rules are the same for everyone: genuine reason, fair process, consultation. See the redundancy rights guide.
• If you think age played a part, raise it with your employer, then consider mediation, a personal grievance (90 days) or the Human Rights Commission.

Money before 65

• Final pay, notice and any redundancy compensation: see the final pay guide.
• Jobseeker Support from Work and Income if you meet the stand-down and income tests. Single, 25 or over: $426.12 a week before tax from 1 April 2026.
• Register and ask about older-worker support and your 'Check what you might get' result. Direct Career Service 0800 222 733 is free for NZ residents 17+.
• Accommodation Supplement and other help may apply to renters and mortgage holders.
• KiwiSaver: you can generally take your savings when you reach the NZ Super eligibility age, currently 65. Earlier access is limited to cases such as first home purchase, significant financial hardship, serious illness or permanent emigration. Hardship withdrawals are a last resort.

NZ Super at 65

• NZ Super is a fortnightly payment for people aged 65 and over, paid on Tuesdays.
• You can apply if your 65th birthday is within the next 12 weeks. Apply before or on your 65th birthday and you're paid from your birthday; apply later and you're paid from the application date.
• You can keep working while on NZ Super. It isn't income or asset tested, but your earnings can affect other payments such as the Accommodation Supplement.
• Residence rules apply, and new residence criteria apply to people turning 65 from 1 July 2024. Check who qualifies at workandincome.govt.nz.
• Your tax code affects how much you receive.

Getting hired

• Show recent, relevant skills: cloud tools, current software, recent courses. Keep your CV to the last 10 to 15 years of detail.
• Lead with outcomes and achievements, not years served.
• Update your LinkedIn and email address (avoid an outdated one).
• Network, since 'hidden market' roles often go through contacts. Consider contracting, consulting or part-time work as stepping stones.
• Be ready for interview questions about energy or adapting: answer with examples.
• Consider retraining. See the training guides for fees-free options and subsidies.