KiwiSaver changes – first homes & first farms
Proposed changes to KiwiSaver from 2026 are set to make things fairer and more practical, particularly for rural New Zealanders.
What’s new?
Service tenancies:
If your job requires you to live in employer-provided housing (common for farm workers, teachers, and police), you may soon be able to:
- Withdraw your KiwiSaver for a first home without needing to live in it immediately
This removes a major barrier that has made it difficult for rural workers to access KiwiSaver for housing.
First farm purchases:
You may also be able to use KiwiSaver funds to buy your first farm, even if it’s owned through a:
- Company
- Trust
- Partnership
As long as you have majority control and intend to live there long term, you could qualify.
Why this matters:
These changes recognise that rural ownership structures and living situations are different — and aim to level the playing field.
Timing:
Legislation is expected to be introduced mid-2026, so now is a good time to start planning.
Fertiliser prices on the rise
Fertiliser costs continue to trend upward, and for many farming businesses, this is becoming a key pressure point heading into the new season.
What’s behind the increase?
A mix of global and local factors are contributing:
- Energy prices: Fertiliser production (especially nitrogen) is heavily reliant on gas, so higher energy costs flow directly into pricing
- Global supply constraints: Ongoing disruptions and reduced production in key regions are tightening supply
- Freight and logistics: Shipping and distribution costs remain elevated compared to previous years
Practical steps to manage the impact
While you can’t control pricing, there are ways to stay ahead:
- Review your fertiliser strategy early
- Factor higher costs into your budgets and forecasts
- Consider timing of purchases to manage cashflow
- Talk to us about the tax impact and planning opportunities
Final thoughts
Fertiliser pricing is likely to remain volatile, so proactive planning is key. Small decisions made early can make a meaningful difference to both profitability and cashflow over the year.