Ageing New Zealanders are finding it difficult to make the two ends meet as the surging cost of living hits them hard, according to a new survey.

The survey ‘The Silver Dollar Report 2026’ was conducted by New Zealand Seniors Insurance in partnership with consumer research group MYMAVINS and surveyed more than 500 New Zealanders over 50 years of age about how they are spending their “silver dollar”, according to a media release by New Zealand Seniors.

Key findings of the 46-page Silver Dollar Report 2026 include

Nearly 1 in 2 (49%) say covering essential expenses has become harder in the past year.
More than 7 in 10 (71%) are concerned that the cost of living is affecting their financial security.
Three in five (60%) feel their retirement savings are inadequate.
80% are most concerned about the rising cost of groceries.
57% have cut back spending on food and groceries.
Nearly half (49%) have provided financial help to a loved one in the past year.
Two in five (40%) who gave financial support provided at least $5,000, while 7% provided $20,000 or more.
More than three in four (77%) say it is important to keep spending on things they enjoy, even when money is tight.
The report findings reveal that the current economic climate is also weighing on retirement confidence. It found that close to two in five (39%) are very or extremely worried about running out of money in retirement. For most, a comfortable retirement is defined in practical terms: being able to cover essential living costs without financial stress (84%).

This concern is prompting some older New Zealanders to rethink their retirement timelines. Among those still working, nearly three in five (58%) expect they will need to work longer than they would like due to financial reasons. This contrasts with retirement aspirations. Just over two in five (42%) say their ideal retirement age is between 65 and 69.

The pressure on retirement planning is reflected in savings confidence. Three in five (60%) feel their total retirement savings are inadequate, including around a third (33%) who say their savings are very inadequate. Among pre-retirees, nearly half (46%) feel unconfident about their ability to retire comfortably.

Together, these findings suggest that many New Zealanders over 50 are approaching retirement with uncertainty, particularly as everyday living costs place pressure on their ability to save, contribute to KiwiSaver, and plan ahead.

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