Superannuation is a way of saving for your retirement so you can enjoy a comfortable standard of living.
Whilst you are working, your employer will put a percentage of your salary from each pay into a superannuation scheme, so you will have money to spend when you retire.
Choosing a superannuation scheme
The University of Otago has two superannuation schemes available to staff, Unisaver and KiwiSaver.
UniSaver
UniSaver is a workplace saving scheme designed to help you save for your retirement. All permanent part-time and full-time staff qualify for employer contributions up to 6.75% of salary (if not contributing to a Kiwisaver superannuation scheme. You may also qualify If you are on a fixed term employment agreement.
To gain the maximum employer subsidy, you need to contribute 5% of your salary.
For more information about UniSaver, visit the Human Resources Superannuation and Retirement SharePoint site:
UniSaver – Superannuation and Retirement
KiwiSaver
KiwiSaver is voluntary saving scheme, introduced by the Government to help New Zealanders save for their retirement. You can join KiwiSaver if you are a New Zealand citizen, or entitled to live in New Zealand indefinitely and you live or normally live in New Zealand.
To join KiwiSaver you need to contribute a minimum of 3%. The University will contribute a maximum of 3%.
In some circumstances the University will not contribute to your KiwiSaver if you are contributing to another superannuation scheme.
For more information about KiwiSaver, visit the Human Resources Superannuation and Retirement SharePoint site:
KiwiSaver – Superannuation and Retirement
Superannuation and financial advice
The University is not qualified to give financial advice on which superannuation option is best for you. You are encouraged to seek independent financial advice prior to deciding which superannuation option you would like to use.