I would be grateful if you could clarify something for me. I have been in KiwiSaver for three years and will be 65 in March next year. I am going to reduce my weekly hours but continue to pay into my KiwiSaver. Does my employer have to make contributions too? I was under the impression that my employer would have to continue to contribute until I reached five years of my membership which would be in August 2018. I have been informed by some office staff that employer contributions cease when I reach the age of 65 regardless of how long I have been a member of the KiwiSaver. What in fact is the right answer?
You are right, and they are wrong. It appears that the office staff you have spoken to are not quite up to speed on employer KiwiSaver obligations.
KiwiSaver is administered by Inland Revenue, both in respect of government contributions as well as the employee and employer contributions made through PAYE returns.
Information on employer obligations can be found on the IRD website and in various guides including the K24 KiwiSaver Employer Guide.
The IRD website states that employers are required to contribute if their employee "has not reached the age of eligibility for New Zealand Super (currently 65), or has not been a member of a KiwiSaver scheme or complying fund for five years, whichever date is later".