Home Buyers Guide
Home Buyers Guide.
Buying a home is an exciting milestone, and having the right information makes all the difference. Whether you’re purchasing your first home or simply looking for trusted resources to guide your next step, this guide brings together helpful tools, advice, and links to support you on your home-buying journey. And if you need a little extra help along the way, our friendly team is always here to answer your questions and offer guidance.
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First Home Buyers | Trusted Resources | Your Bank
Government and Financial Support for First Home Buyers
KiwiSaver First-Home Withdrawal
If you’ve been contributing to KiwiSaver for at least three years, you may be eligible to use most of your savings to help buy your first home. You’ll need to apply through your KiwiSaver provider, and it’s best to do so early in your buying journey so the funds are ready when needed.
First Home Loan
The First Home Loan is designed to make buying a home more accessible by lowering the usual deposit requirement. While most banks require a 20% deposit, eligible buyers can purchase a home with as little as 5% using a First Home Loan.
This programme is administered by Kāinga Ora in partnership with selected lenders. It’s ideal for buyers with solid financial habits who need a little extra support to get started. You’ll still need to meet standard lending and income criteria, and the property must be owner-occupied.
Kāinga Ora Home Ownership Support
Kāinga Ora offers several government programmes designed to help first home buyers, and in some cases previous homeowners, take their first step onto the property ladder. These initiatives can include financial support, deposit assistance, and access to low-deposit lending options through approved banks and lenders.
Each programme has its own eligibility criteria, such as income limits and property requirements, so it’s worth exploring which options best suit your situation. Kāinga Ora’s tools and resources also provide valuable guidance on budgeting, eligibility, and the buying process.
Trusted Information and Resources
Finding clear, reliable information is one of the most important parts of your home-buying journey. The resources below offer expert guidance, practical tools, and independent advice to help you make confident, informed decisions. From understanding deposits and how different mortgage types work to budgeting, making an offer, and planning ahead, these trusted sites can guide you through every step of the process.
Canstar
Canstar compares a wide range of financial products and lenders across New Zealand. Their home-loan guides outline current interest rates, first-home buyer incentives, and bank offers, making it easier to understand what options are available before you apply.
settled.govt.nz
Created by the Real Estate Authority, Settled.govt.nz provides trusted, government-backed information about the entire home-buying process. From understanding sale methods and LIM reports to making an offer and moving day checklists, it’s a valuable resource for anyone wanting clarity and confidence when purchasing property.
Sorted
Sorted is a free, independent website from Te Ara Ahunga Ora Retirement Commission that helps Kiwis make smarter money decisions. It offers simple tools to help you plan, budget, and understand your mortgage options - including calculators for deposits and repayments, guides on managing debt, and tips for long-term financial wellbeing.
Our team can connect you with reputable, experienced mortgage brokers who understand the lending landscape and can help you find the right finance solution for your situation.
Exploring Finance Options with Your Bank
It’s always worth checking what support your bank offers if you’re thinking about buying or building a home. Most major New Zealand banks have dedicated first-home buyer pages with helpful guides, tools, and home loan calculators to help you plan your next step.
Some banks also offer special incentives or reduced-deposit options for eligible buyers, so it pays to compare what’s available and see which lender best suits your goals.
If you’re unsure where to start, our team can connect you with trusted mortgage brokers who can help you explore different lending options and make the process simpler.
Below you’ll find links to each bank’s Home Buyer Help pages, where you can access tailored advice and first-home resources directly from their teams.
