NZ Tax Information
Current rates and thresholds for New Zealand PAYE, ACC, KiwiSaver & Student Loans
PAYE Tax Brackets — 2026/27
New Zealand uses a progressive tax system. Each bracket rate only applies to income within that band — not your whole salary.
| Income Band | Tax Rate | Tax on Band |
|---|---|---|
| $0 – $15,600 | 10.5% | $1,638.00 |
| $15,600 – $53,500 | 17.5% | $6,632.50 |
| $53,500 – $78,100 | 30.0% | $7,380.00 |
| $78,100 – $180,000 | 33.0% | $33,627.00 |
| $180,000 + | 39.0% | — |
* The top bracket applies to all income above $180,000.
ACC Levy
The ACC earners' levy funds New Zealand's accident compensation scheme. It's deducted from your pay alongside PAYE.
Student Loan
Student loan repayments are deducted automatically from your pay if you earn over the repayment threshold.
KiwiSaver
KiwiSaver is New Zealand's voluntary workplace retirement savings scheme. Both you and your employer contribute.
From 1 April 2026 the default employee and compulsory employer contribution rates are 3.5% (up from 3%), rising to 4% from 1 April 2028 (Budget 2025). Members who can't afford the new rate can apply to stay at 3% temporarily. Employer contributions are subject to ESCT (employer superannuation contribution tax), which is deducted from the contribution before it reaches your KiwiSaver.
Year-on-Year Comparison
| Tax Year | ACC Rate | ACC Cap | Student Loan Threshold | SL Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2027/28 | 1.83% | $160,244 | $24,128 | 12% |
| 2026/27 current | 1.75% | $156,641 | $24,128 | 12% |
| 2025/26 | 1.67% | $152,790 | $24,128 | 12% |
| 2024/25 | 1.60% | $142,283 | $24,128 | 12% |
Official Resources
Rates shown for the 2026/27 tax year. Verified against Inland Revenue · last reviewed September 2026. This is general information, not tax advice.