New Zealand First's leader Winston Peters has completely ruled out supporting legislation that would raise the age of entitlement for superannuation.
NZ First leader Winston Peters has called the policy a "betrayal of the electorate". Photo: RNZ
Prime Minister Bill English yesterday announced his intention to raise the super age from 65 to 67, in six-month increments from 2037 to 2040.
Every other party in Parliament, except ACT, opposes an increase in the age of eligibility.
"We are categorically not going to support this legislation, or a continuation of the National Party breaking its word to the constituency," Mr Peters confirmed today.
"We are not going to vote for this betrayal of the electorate."
Another government support partner, United Future's Peter Dunne, said it placed the burden on younger New Zealanders.
United Future leader Peter Dunne Photo: RNZ / Alexander Robertson
"They just happen to be the generation that have copped a lot of the other changes that have been over the last number of years - student loans, higher education costs.
"So they're getting it from all sides and are now going to be told they've go to work a few more years before they can pick up their pension."
However, Prime Minister Bill English said the plan gave people plenty of time to plan for their retirement, and would not disadvantage any particular group.
He was asked whether younger generations should feel ripped off.
"Oh look I think that would be a bit extreme," he said.
"The fact is with the superannuation announcement ... someone who's aged 40 will get about the same time on national super, when they turn 67, as a person going on it today."
