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SuperGold Card Review and Perks, Discounts and Everyday Concessions for New Zealand Senior Citizens

​Our comprehensive guide provides an exclusive SuperGold Card overview detailing its benefits and discounts. We also explore the wealth of additional perks available to seniors beyond the card’s primary offerings and list non-financial support services.
Updated 9 August 2024
Introduction:
  • The SuperGold card is widely held but not always understood. There are many unique perks, discounts, and concessions that senior New Zealanders may be unaware of and that they can take full advantage of.
  • Our guide is published to bring light to how the SuperGold Card works, and the savings benefits and support networks available for those 65 years and older.

We cover:
Know This First: While there are thousands of different benefits that senior New Zealanders might be eligible for, there are a few key categories of retirement-specific benefits that all seniors need to be aware of:
Important: At the AA you can add your photo to your SuperGold Card so that you can use it as photo ID. Adding your photo to your card is a free service for all SuperGold Card holders. Your photo will be taken and a new card posted to you free of charge - more details are outlined by the AA here.

MoneyHub Founder Christopher Walsh shares his views on why we've published this guide:

​"As the founder of MoneyHub, the importance of the SuperGold Card for New Zealand's seniors is often misunderstood and limited to free public transport. This guide is our attempt to provide comprehensive, easy-to-understand information to help older New Zealanders maximise the benefits they deserve. My parents enjoy a bunch of benefits with their SuperGold cards - I want you to see its full potential.

As a background, our commitment at MoneyHub is to empower individuals with clear financial guidance. This guide is aimed at helping New Zealand's older generation navigate their benefits with ease and confidence.

New Zealand is facing a unique set of challenges today. Financial stability is a growing concern with rising living costs and stagnant wages, particularly for older Kiwis in part-time jobs. Additionally, the financial needs of younger generations often impact the finances of their older family members. At MoneyHub, we understand these complexities and aim to provide resources to help navigate these difficult financial landscapes, offering practical advice and support. This SuperGold Card review and list of non-financial organisations is a starting point.

If you have any suggestions to improve or expand this guide, please contact our research team. We want this information to be as useful as possible and to help as many New Zealanders as possible".
MoneyHub Founder
Christopher Walsh

Understanding the NZ SuperGold Card

  • For New Zealand residents over 65, the SuperGold Card, often called the 'Gold Card', provides a wide range of discounts and deals nationwide on essential and leisure services.
  • The SuperGold card's benefits extend to discounts on electricity, healthcare, food, insurance, entertainment and travel. This card is a key benefit to New Zealand retirees as a token of appreciation for their societal contributions and hard work over the decades.
  • Since its introduction in 2008 and its revamp in 2019, the SuperGold card, overseen by the Officer for Seniors, aims to assist seniors, especially those relying heavily on the New Zealand Superannuation (NZ Super).
  • The SuperGold card maximises the value of New Zealand senior citizen's income (if they're still working) and retirement savings.

Where does the funding for the SuperGold card scheme come from?

  • Initiated in 2008, the SuperGold Card scheme initially served around 500,000 New Zealanders, costing $18 million annually. The scheme's expenses increased due to higher public transport usage, fare increases, and an annual growth in cardholders (about 29,000 yearly).
  • Initially, the New Zealand Government compensated regional councils for individual fares to fund the program.

How can I get the SuperGold card?

  1. Upon approval of your NZ Superannuation or Veteran's Pension, you'll automatically receive either a SuperGold Card or a Veteran SuperGold Card, respectively.
  2. The process typically spans a few weeks but might extend to one or two months if applied before turning 65. Those ineligible for NZ Super or Veteran's Pension can still apply for a SuperGold Card, but you'll need to submit a manual application and provide the necessary documentation subject to specific eligibility criteria.
  3. The Ministry of Social Development mails the card to your home address.

Eligibility for the SuperGold Card

 You’ll likely need to provide documentation like:
  • Birth certificate or passport (to provide minimum age)
  • Proof of NZ citizenship or permanent residency
  • Proof of at least ten years of residency in New Zealand after age 20, including five years in the last decade
  • Address proof
  • Bank details for direct payments.

Community Services Card Holders

If you hold a Community Services Card, it becomes inactive once your NZ Superannuation is approved due to income changes. You must reapply for a “combo card" combining the benefits of the Community Services Card and SuperGold Card. The combo card, marked with 'CSC' and an expiry date, offers the combined advantages of both cards. Upon nearing its expiry, a new combo card will be issued to you automatically.

Understanding the Main Categories for the SuperGold Card

Specifically regarding the SuperGold card, it’s best to segment and think about the potential deals and discounts in the following categories:
  • Food & Beverage (e.g. McDonalds)
  • Activities and Events (e.g. trips to the MOTAT)
  • Health, Fitness & Well-being (e.g. gym access or massages)
  • Insurance & Financial (e.g. estate or will planning)
  • Energy and Utilities (e.g. HVAC or heat pumps)
  • Banking & insurance (e.g. life insurance)
  • Travel and Transportation (e.g. public transportation)
  • Social and Engagement (such as clubs or networking)

What are the SuperGold card's most popular and valuable freebie benefits?

There are several dedicated “freebies” that are very popular and heavily beneficial:

1. Free Off-Peak Public Transport
One of the most significant advantages of the SuperGold Card is the ability to access free off-peak public transport. SuperGold cardholders enjoy complimentary travel on off-peak public transport in most cities, including buses, trains, and ferries, typically outside peak hours and on weekends and public holidays.

For example, SuperGold holders get:
Off-peak travel times generally include weekdays between 9 am and 3 pm, after 6:30 pm, and all day on weekends and public holidays. However, specific times may vary depending on the region. For example, the SuperGold Card can be used for free during the afternoon peak in Auckland. Whilst Auckland's afternoon peak concession (from 3.00 pm to 6.30 pm on weekdays) is not covered by the SuperGold scheme, it is funded by the Auckland Council. Auckland Transport is currently reviewing this concession.

​Additional Services:
It's useful to note that certain specialised services (exempt services) are part of the scheme despite not being core elements of regional public transport networks. For example, SuperGold card holders can take advantage of the following additional services for free thanks to the additional funding (established in 2015):
2. Free entry to the Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT)
Auckland residents with a SuperGold Card can enjoy everything MOTAT offers for free. There's a lot to see and do at MOTAT, and it's a fantastic place for children, meaning it can be a great way to bring the family together for a fun day out.

The Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT) is New Zealand's largest transport, technology, and social history museum. It offers a rich insight into the country's technological advancements and historical developments in Western Springs, Auckland. More details can be found here (LINK).

3. Free Skiing for Over 75s
  • While not strictly a SuperGold card subsidised offering, we’ve included it in the freebie section as it’s free. One of the best-kept secrets for senior New Zealanders who like to ski is the free senior skiing.
  • If you're over 75, you can ski for free at Coronet Peak, The Remarkables or Mt Hutt. You'll still need a MyPass card with the complimentary ski pass to use the ski lifts. This card can be obtained from Guest Services at the mountain or the central Queenstown Snow Centre.
  • ​However, if you’re over 75, physical health will be one of the most important things to watch, especially when skiing. Make sure you know the risks of skiing as you get older (even if it’s free).

Understanding the Discounts on Products and Services with the SuperGold Card

The SuperGold Card provides discounts on a wide range of products and services, including but not limited to:
  • Retail discounts: Many retailers offer discounts to SuperGold Card holders, such as reduced prices on clothing, shoes, and accessories.
  • Food and Beverage: A variety of cafes, restaurants and takeaway outlets provide discounts for cardholders, ranging from percentage discounts to special meal deals.
  • Health and wellness: Discounts on gym memberships, fitness classes, and wellness services such as massage, acupuncture and chiropractic care are available to cardholders.
  • Entertainment: The SuperGold Card can access reduced prices on movie tickets, theatre performances, and other entertainment events.
  • Travel and accommodation: Cardholders can enjoy discounts on hotels, motels, rental cars and other travel-related expenses.
  • Home and garden: Discounts on home improvement services, gardening supplies and hardware stores are available to cardholders.

Where can I find a list of all discounts for New Zealand senior citizens?

Thousands of providers have partnered with SuperGold cards to offer Senior New Zealanders discounts, perks, and concessions. For those with the app, searching through the list of providers by category is easy. The website also shows there are around 6,000 offers - this is too big for us to summarise. 

Instead, we outline some of the top picks and the most popular offers, grouped by category. However, we can't cover everything and that's why browsing the offer list is critical to understand everything that's on offer.

Top Discounts by Category

1) Supermarkets, Food & Beverages, Retail
2) ​Health
3) ​Transportation and Automotive 4) Travel/Accommodation
5) ​Entertainment
6) Utilities
Words of Caution for SuperGold Card Discounts
  • It's important to remember that while the SuperGold Card offers various discounts and deals, these may not always be the most cost-effective option available. We suggest comparing prices and deals, even with the discounts offered through the card.
  • Check the terms and conditions of each offer and be aware that deals with specific retailers might not always provide the best value. It's wise to shop around and compare prices before making a purchase.
  • Keep in mind that offers and discounts can change. Regularly check the latest deals and stay updated with the SuperGold Card offerings. Because thousands of businesses, deals, or offers are on the app, you're unlikely to get notified when these change, so take advantage of them while they're live if they're of interest.
  • When in doubt or if a deal seems too good to be true, consider seeking additional advice or information to make an informed decision.​

Perks or Discounts for Senior Citizens Beyond SuperGold

​Beyond the SuperGold Card, other perks, discounts, and concessions are available to seniors. These additional benefits and opportunities can further enhance the quality of life for older New Zealanders, allowing them to enjoy their retirement years to the fullest. This section lists various initiatives and programmes that cater specifically to the senior population:
1. National Superannuation Benefits
If you live at home and your partner in care is under the Residential Care Subsidy, your NZ superannuation will automatically be adjusted to the single, living alone rate by Work and Income. If your partner self-funds their care, you can apply for this rate adjustment.
 
2. Help with Housing Costs
The Accommodation Supplement is available to help with renting, boarding, or homeownership expenses. This supplement is subject to income and asset assessments.
 
3. Advance Payment for Essential Items
For immediate needs like dentures, hearing aids, or glasses, you may qualify for an Advance Payment of Benefit from Work and Income. This advance is income and asset-tested and must be repaid, though not from personal allowances if you receive a residential care subsidy. Repayment is typically sought from the estate.
 
4. Disability Allowance
This allowance assists with additional disability-related costs, such as lawn mowing, medical alarms, or medical expenses. Eligibility requires a medical certificate from your doctor and is income tested.

5. Special Disability Allowance
Partners of Residential Care Subsidy recipients may be eligible for the special disability allowance to cover costs associated with visits.

6. Prescription Subsidy Scheme
This scheme reduces medicine costs for individuals and families with frequent prescriptions. After purchasing 20 new prescription items starting February 1st of each year, eligibility is granted. After reaching this threshold, prescription charges are waived for the remainder of the year. Prescriptions for your partner and dependent children can count towards the 20-item limit.

7. High Use Health Card (HUHC)
Similar to the Community Services Card, the high-use health card provides benefits for frequent GP visits and prescriptions for those with chronic health conditions who don't qualify for the Community Services Card. Consult your doctor for eligibility.

8. Discount Taxi Vouchers
The Total Mobility Scheme offers discounted taxi fares for individuals with a permanent disability that prevents them from using public transport. Eligibility requires an assessment and an identity card from disability organisations like Alzheimer's, Stroke Foundation, or Age Concern. Assessment and identity card costs vary; not all agencies offer home visits.

For an overview of financial assistance for older adults, refer to the Ministry of Social Development's (MSD) Services for Seniors booklet.

9. Community Services Card
The Community Services Card (CSC) is another valuable card for seniors, as it helps reduce the cost of certain services and health care. While it is not exclusively for senior citizens, many older adults are eligible for the card due to their income status.

Eligibility for the CSC includes:
  • People receiving New Zealand Superannuation or the Veteran's Pension.
  • People with low to middle incomes who meet the income thresholds.

With a CSC, eligible seniors can access various benefits, such as:
  • Lower fees for after-hours medical visits and prescription charges.
  • Discounts on ambulance services for non-emergency transportation.

10. Glasses 
Subsidies for glasses and contact lenses are available through the Glasses Subsidy programme.

Non-Financial Support Services Available for New Zealand Seniors

New Zealand has hard-working, compassionate and caring volunteer networks and resources. We list relevant organisations below:​
  • Age Concern NZ: A non-profit advocating for the rights and well-being of those over 65. Offers workshops, seminars, and resources on health, housing, and finance.
  • Eldernet New Zealand: An online platform offering impartial information on home help, respite care, and dementia care.
  • Citizens Advice Bureau: Provides a broad range of information, consumer advocacy, and free legal and budget advice with branches nationwide.

Specialised Support
  • Carers NZ: A hub for family carers, offering respite strategies and resources.
  • Alzheimer's NZ: Focuses on dementia awareness, providing information, resources, and support for caregivers and families.
  • Ministry of Health: Offers detailed information on dementia, depression, and disabilities, with links to various support services.

Downsizing and Housing
Social Well-being and Engagement
  • CommunityNet Aotearoa: An information-sharing platform for community and voluntary groups.
  • Grey Power NZ: An advocacy group for those over 50, offering resources and discussion forums.
  • Friendship NZ: A social organisation for retirees promoting active Engagement and participation.
  • SeniorNet: Offers technology classes for those over 50, taught by volunteer tutors.
  • Grownups: Social magazine for 50+ year olds.

​Financial Well-being and Retirement Planning
  • MSD Seniors: Provides information on superannuation, entitlements, and financial assessments.
  • Consumer NZ: Offers guidance on financial investments and cautions against risky ventures.

Frequently Asked Questions Related to Senior Citizen Perks

Why would I want to get a SuperGold Card?

The main reason you’ll want to get the SuperGold card (if you’re eligible) is that it’s free, has no downsides and provides a huge range of benefits. 

Can I use my NZ SuperGold Card in Australia?

Your NZ SuperGold Card is valid for discounts at participating Australian businesses, typically those in the Seniors Card program. However, not all businesses participate, so look for the 'Seniors Card Welcome Here' sign or ask about discounts. Some discounts may be exclusive to Australian residents, and government-funded transport concessions are for Australian Seniors Cardholders only.

How do I find businesses that offer SuperGold Card discounts?

There are several ways to find businesses that offer SuperGold Card discounts:
  • Visit the SuperGold Card website to search for participating businesses by region and category.
  • Look for the SuperGold Card logo displayed on shop windows or at the point of sale.
  • Enquire directly with the business if they offer a discount for SuperGold Card holders (e.g. email them).

Can my spouse or partner use my SuperGold Card?

The SuperGold Card is personalised and can only be used by the cardholder. If your spouse or partner is also eligible for a SuperGold Card, they should apply for their card to access the benefits and discounts.

I'm a senior citizen but don't live in New Zealand. Can I still apply for a SuperGold Card?

The SuperGold Card is only available to New Zealand citizens or permanent residents who meet the eligibility criteria. If you are a senior citizen living overseas, you will not be eligible for the SuperGold Card unless you return to New Zealand and meet the eligibility requirements.

Compared to other countries, New Zealand's card seems to lack benefits. Why is this?

The Gold card, alongside NZ Super, is a significant draw for New Zealanders who have hit retirement age. However, compared to perks in other countries, New Zealand's retirees receive less, making further restrictions seem unfair.
​
The SuperGold website's discounts appear modest but not as lucrative. However, New Zealand's pension and perk/discount/concession system (SuperGold programme), while "perk-poor," is straightforward compared to other countries that can have more complex means-tested systems (like the UK). Additionally, New Zealand's SuperGold system is free, uncomplicated, and easy to implement through swiping the card or accessing the app. 

Are non-residents eligible for the SuperGold card?

Non-residents not intending to stay in New Zealand are ineligible for the SuperGold Card.

When shopping, can I just use the SuperGold App instead of the SuperGold card?

No, the app complements but doesn’t replace the physical card. The app is designed to help you search through the SuperGold discount providers, but you won’t be eligible for the SuperGold discounts without presenting the physical SuperGold card.

I’ve heard different names for the SuperGold card, like “Super Gold” and “Gold Card”. Are there two different cards?

​No, “SuperGold” and “Gold Card” are the same.

Do the cards expire?

​No - cards issued after May 2010 don’t expire, except 'combo cards'.
Other Resources for New Zealand Senior Citizens
Our related resources:
  • New Zealand Superannuation Rates: This guide provides detailed information on the current rates of New Zealand Superannuation (NZ Super), outlining the amount senior citizens can expect to receive based on different living situations. It also addresses frequently asked questions about NZ Super.
  • The Best Retirement Income Products in New Zealand: This guide outlines popular retirement income products, such as funds, term deposits, and bonds. It helps senior citizens understand how to supplement their NZ Super and secure their financial future while considering the risks and benefits of each option.
  • NZ Superannuation in a Nutshell: This guide overviews NZ Superannuation, including eligibility criteria and payment details. It's a great starting point for understanding how the pension works in New Zealand.
  • What Do I Do With My KiwiSaver When I Retire?: This guide explores various options for managing KiwiSaver funds after retirement, including withdrawal strategies and investment options.
  • How to Maximise Income in Retirement: Our guide discusses strategies for maximising retirement income, catering to different age groups and scenarios. It covers early retirement planning to managing finances for those already retired.
  • Retirement Villages: Our guide provides essential information about living in retirement villages, including the financial and lifestyle considerations involved.
  • Rest Home Costs, Subsidies, and Financing: This guide covers the important aspects of rest homes and residential care facilities in New Zealand. It discusses the types of care available, financing options, and the costs involved. Government subsidies, other support options, and tips for choosing the right facility ​​are also explored.
  • FIRE Movement - An Introduction for New Zealanders: This introduction to the FIRE movement breaks down what FIRE is, its principles, and why it's a growing trend among New Zealanders. It provides a broad overview of the concept and its variations, tailored for a New Zealand audience​​.
  • ​How to Retire Early in New Zealand: This guide offers valuable insights for those interested in the Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE) movement. It explains the concept of FIRE, how much money you might need to retire early, and tips for planning and achieving early retirement. It also emphasizes the importance of being debt-free and having savings before retirement​​.