Politics / Pacific

Easier super access for Cook Islands, Niue and Tokelau

18:02 pm on 8 March 2018

People from the Cook Islands, Niue and Tokelau no longer have to return to New Zealand to get their superannuation.

Currently they need to have lived a total of ten years in New Zealand - five of those after the age of 50.

Speaking in Rarotonga, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has said people can now qualify if they spend the last five years in those three countries.

Ms Ardern said many people who have moved back to the islands become part of the community, and start their own businesses.

"But then they find themselves in a situation where they will be considering leaving their home and their businesses and their employment in order to ensure their eligibility."

Ms Ardern said she estimated the scheme would cost $3.5 million in the first year.