New Zealand’s Retirement Commissioner Jane Wrightson has advised the Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs that she will conclude her second term in early 2026 and not seek reappointment.

Jane Wrightson has led the Retirement Commission for nearly six years, overseeing research, policy advice on retirement incomes and villages, and public education to support New Zealanders' financial wellbeing.

Throughout her time as Retirement Commissioner she has successfully advocated for key policy changes which will see more New Zealanders enjoy a better retirement as a result.

Key achievements:

• Prompted the first substantive review of the Retirement Villages Act 2003 with a decision expected on legislative changes by the end of 2025.
• Recommended employer and employee KiwiSaver contributions increase to 4% and for 16-17-year-olds to be included, confirmed in Budget 2025.
• Championed the compulsory inclusion of financial education in schools, announced in April 2025.
• Rallied a diverse financial services sector around supporting the National Strategy for Financial Capability with three-year action plans.
• Ensured that Sorted keeps growing as a popular and appealing upskilling resource for the more than two million New Zealanders who use it each year.

Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Scott Simpson acknowledged the work of the Retirement Commissioner.

“I would like to thank Jane Wrightson for her leadership and for the way she’s advocated for better financial capability and retirement outcomes for New Zealanders. I wish her all the very best for the future,” Mr Simpson says.

“Recruitment for the next Retirement Commissioner will begin shortly.”

Retirement Commissioner Jane Wrightson says she’s proud of what’s been achieved during her time in the role.

“I can’t do anything without a great team, and while we might be small, over the years have achieved some big wins,” she says.

“Our work on the National Strategy for Financial Capability actively encourages different parts of the sector, from the big end of town to NGOs, to pull together on projects that make a difference.

“Our high-quality research and analysis provide evidence for considered policy change. We ensure it’s public so that people can rely on it to inform themselves and their ideas.

“Years of championing for a stronger focus on financial education in schools has been heard, and it will be a game-changer for the next generation’s financial wellbeing.

“It’s been a privilege to hold this position, and I’d like to thank my team, the Ministers I’ve worked with, and our sector partners and stakeholders that help us to improve the financial futures of New Zealanders so a better retirement can be enjoyed by all.”

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