BNZ KiwiSaver Withdrawal Form: Step-by-Step Guide

Anyone who’s tried to figure out how to get their money out of KiwiSaver from BNZ has probably hit the same wall: lots of forms, different rules for each reason, and no single page that lays it all out. This guide breaks down every BNZ KiwiSaver withdrawal path—first home, retirement, permanent emigration, and hardship—with the exact forms, documents, and steps you need, so you can get through it without the guesswork.

KiwiSaver members in NZ: 3.2 million (March 2023) ·
Minimum age to withdraw at retirement: 65 ·
First home withdrawal: maximum you can take: All except $1,000 and any Australian transfer ·
BNZ KiwiSaver exit fee: $0

The table below lays out each withdrawal type side by side so you can match your situation to the right path.

How do I get a KiwiSaver withdrawal form?

Downloading the correct BNZ form for your situation

• BNZ provides separate withdrawal forms for each reason. The official forms are available as PDFs on the BNZ website under the KiwiSaver support section.
• For a first home withdrawal, use the BNZ KiwiSaver Scheme Home Purchase Withdrawal Application.
• For retirement, use the BNZ KiwiSaver Scheme Retirement Withdrawal Application.
• For permanent emigration, use the BNZ KiwiSaver Scheme Permanent Emigration Withdrawal Application.
• For significant financial hardship, call BNZ on 0800 269 5494 to request a form or discuss your options (BNZ KiwiSaver support).

Where to find official BNZ KiwiSaver withdrawal forms online

• The forms are hosted directly on BNZ’s website under the “KiwiSaver” section of the personal banking support pages.
• Each form is a standalone PDF that matches the specific withdrawal reason.
• You can also call BNZ on 0800 269 5494 to request a paper copy or get guidance on which form you need.

Contacting BNZ to request a paper form

• If you prefer a paper form, call BNZ on 0800 269 5494 to request one by post.
• BNZ can also help you determine which form is appropriate for your situation over the phone.

What documents are needed for a KiwiSaver withdrawal?

General identification and account details

• All withdrawals require a completed application form, proof of identity (e.g., passport or driver’s license), and your IRD number.
• You’ll also need your KiwiSaver account number and bank account details for the transfer of funds.

Documents required for a first home withdrawal

• For a first home withdrawal, you need a sale and purchase agreement or a builder’s contract, plus a pre-printed deposit slip if the account is not with BNZ.
• You must also provide proof that you’ve been in KiwiSaver for at least 3 years (IRD).

Documents required for a retirement withdrawal

• For retirement, you need proof of age (if under 65, evidence of reaching qualifying age) and your bank account details.
• You must also leave $1,000 in your KiwiSaver account unless you’re withdrawing for permanent emigration.

Documents required for permanent emigration

• For permanent emigration, you need evidence of living overseas for at least 12 months (e.g., entry stamps, utility bills) and proof of permanent move.
• You must also provide evidence of permanent residency overseas (e.g., visa, residency permit).

Documents required for significant financial hardship

• For significant financial hardship, you need evidence of hardship (e.g., letters from WINZ, medical bills, bank statements) and a completed hardship application form.
• You also need a statutory declaration about your assets and liabilities (FMA).

How do I withdraw my KiwiSaver from BNZ?

Step 1: Determine your eligibility

• Eligibility depends on the withdrawal reason: first home, retirement (age 65+ or qualifying age), permanent emigration (living overseas 12+ months), or significant financial hardship.
• For first home, you must have been in KiwiSaver for at least 3 years (IRD).

Step 2: Download and complete the correct form

• Complete the specific BNZ KiwiSaver Scheme withdrawal form relevant to your situation.
• Each form requires you to fill in your personal details, KiwiSaver account number, and reason for withdrawal.

Step 3: Gather supporting documents

• Gather the required documents as outlined above for each withdrawal type.
• Make sure you have proof of identity, your IRD number, and any specific documents needed.

Step 4: Submit your application

• Submit the form and documents via email to kiwisaver@bnz.co.nz or by post to BNZ KiwiSaver, Private Bag 39806, Wellington Mail Centre, Lower Hutt 5045.
• If sending by post, use a tracked service to ensure it arrives.

Step 5: Wait for processing and payment

• Processing times vary; typical turnaround is 10–15 business days for standard withdrawals.
• If approved, funds are transferred to your nominated bank account (you must leave $1,000 in your account for first home and retirement withdrawals unless you are emigrating).

Can I withdraw my KiwiSaver if I live overseas?

Eligibility for overseas KiwiSaver withdrawal

• You can withdraw your KiwiSaver from BNZ while living overseas if you meet one of the conditions: permanent emigration (12+ months), significant financial hardship, or reaching retirement age.
• There is no blanket “overseas withdrawal” option; you must have a valid reason under KiwiSaver rules.

Withdrawing from BNZ while living in Australia

• If you moved to Australia, you may be able to transfer your KiwiSaver to an Australian superannuation fund after meeting certain criteria, or withdraw if you meet permanent emigration rules.
• You must provide evidence of permanent residency in Australia (e.g., visa, residency permit).

Tax implications for overseas withdrawals

• Withdrawals may be subject to New Zealand tax rules; consult a tax advisor for your specific situation.
• For example, if you withdraw while living overseas, you may need to pay tax on the withdrawal in both New Zealand and your new country of residence.

What happens to my KiwiSaver if I move permanently overseas?

After 12 months overseas you can withdraw all funds

• If you permanently emigrate and live outside New Zealand for 12 months or more, you can apply to withdraw all your BNZ KiwiSaver investment (including any Australian transferred funds).
• You must provide evidence of permanent residency overseas (e.g., visa, residency permit, proof of living abroad).

Transferring to an Australian super fund (if moving to Australia)

• If you move to Australia, you may instead transfer to an Australian superannuation fund after one year.
• BNZ’s permanent emigration form allows you to withdraw all funds after 12 months, but Westpac’s policy is different—check your provider’s specific rules.

Keeping your KiwiSaver open while living abroad

• You cannot withdraw simply because you travel or work temporarily overseas; it must be a permanent move.
• If you plan to return to New Zealand, you can keep your KiwiSaver account open and continue contributing.

Is there an exit fee for BNZ KiwiSaver?

BNZ KiwiSaver does not charge an exit fee

• BNZ does not charge an exit fee for withdrawing your KiwiSaver savings.
• There are no penalties for withdrawing at retirement, for a first home, or for permanent emigration.

Are there any other costs when withdrawing?

• There are no penalties for withdrawing at retirement, for a first home, or for permanent emigration.
• If you are considering switching providers, BNZ does not charge a fee to transfer out.

Comparison with other KiwiSaver providers

• Other providers may charge exit fees; always check your scheme’s terms.
• For example, Westpac charges a $50 exit fee for some withdrawal types (Westpac).

Related reading: **Westpac KiwiSaver Withdrawal Form – Step-by-Step Guide**

If you’re navigating BNZ’s process, it’s worth comparing the ANZ KiwiSaver withdrawal guide for similar documentation requirements.

Frequently asked questions