Partner has left New Zealand permanently
When a partner has left New Zealand permanently and the other partner remains in New Zealand, their qualification for New Zealand Superannuation depends on whether they are:
- qualified in their own right or
- a grandparented non-qualified partner
Both qualified in own right
When payment has stopped for a client, as they are overseas, the partner who remains in New Zealand can continue to get the married, civil union or de facto person rate. The partner remaining in New Zealand cannot get the single rate unless there is a breakdown in the relationship.
Grandparented non-qualified partner is overseas
When the grandparented non-qualified partner is overseas permanently, the qualified client remaining in New Zealand will continue getting the half couple rate.
If the grandparented non-qualified partner is not returning to New Zealand, the grandparented non-qualified rate must end as the non-qualified partner will not be ordinarily resident.
Grandparented non-qualified partner remains in New Zealand
When the grandparented non-qualified partner remains in New Zealand and the qualifying partners New Zealand Superannuation has stopped as they are overseas for more than 26 weeks, the grandparented rate ends because the qualifying partner is not entitled to payment for their absence or part of their absence.
The non-qualified partner can test their eligibility for a main benefit if they need financial assistance.
For more information see:
Legislation
- When grandparenting ends (absence from New Zealand) Schedule 1AA Part 3, clause 7(2)(c)(i) and (ii) New Zealand Superannuation Retirement Income Act 2001
