KiwiSaver gender gap widest in middle-age

Research from actuaries MJW based on data from KiwiSaver providers and released today by the Retirement Commission shows the average KiwiSaver balance is $37,079, up by $5,256 on the previous year.

The 25% difference in average balance between men and women has remained steady for the past two years. The average balance for women is $34,185 while for men it is $42,664.

As KiwiSaver members age, the gap widens, peaking around 37% for those aged 56-65, which concerns the Retirement Commission, with women retiring with around $20,000 less than men.

Source: KiwiSaver Demographic Study 2025, MJW for the Te Ara Ahunga Ora Retirement Commission