A North Shore woman has sent the Government a refund for part of her pension.
Social Development Minister Paula Bennett received a cheque for $9300 this week and a letter from the woman saying she had been receiving national superannuation for the past year.
"However, as I have also been in employment, I do not think I should accept all of it, particularly as the country's financial situation is not good. Hence the attached cheque of $9300," the letter said.
New Zealand Super is universal to everyone who is 65 and the rates are the same no matter whether the person receiving it is poor or a millionaire.
A single person living alone is entitled to super payments of $339.92 a week or $17,675.84 a year - although that is about to go up with the annual adjustment on April 1.
Ms Bennett said it was heartening to find that someone who was entitled to Super, having worked hard for it all her life, was more concerned for others who may need it more.
"How delightful to know there are New Zealanders who think like this."
She had thought about accepting the cheque on behalf of taxpayers "but funnily enough couldn't find a receipt book".
"So I will probably suggest it goes to a charity of their choice."