KiwiSaver, First Home Grant, and First Home Loan Information

Are you thinking about buying your first home? There are some pretty cool funds available to help you afford your first mortgage, including accessing your KiwiSaver funds and the First Home Loan.

Here's how you can go about assessing if you are eligible for these funds and the process to go through to apply for them.

Please note: There are some changes in eligibility from region to region in New Zealand. So please feel free to contact us to discuss if further details are required.

The information below is for the region of Christchurch.

For first home buyers we’ve created a helpful guide which you can request a copy of here.

KiwiSaver

Whilst anyone can use their KiwiSaver funds to purchase their first home regardless of income and the properties cost, there are rules around when and how much you can withdraw.

  • You must have been been contributing to your KiwiSaver for at least three years to be eligible.
  • You can withdraw your KiwiSaver savings, but not the $1,000 kick-start government contribution or any tax credits received.
  • KiwiSaver funds can only be used to purchase a property to live in and cannot be used to purchase a rental property.

If you've owned a home before, you may be eligible to access your KiwiSaver funds for a second time - it's a little detailed so call us on 0508 466 356 to chat if you'd like advice on the process.

At Advanced Mortgage Solutions we work with several KiwiSaver providers to ensure you get the best outcome. Call us to discuss or Click Here to see what Koura KiwiSaver can offer.

You can learn more about how to use your KiwiSaver to buy your first home and get your application started here.

 

First Home Loan

The First Home Loan is designed specifically to help Kiwi’s or people holding a Permanent Residency visa that are looking to purchase their first home to live in.

The same income caps and purchase price caps apply as when applying for your First Home Grant (see above).

There are opportunities to use the First Home Loan a second time if you've owned a home before. It can be a detailed process, so call us on 0508 466 356 to discuss your ability to gain a second chance.

You can read more and apply here.

 

First Home Grant

The First Home Grant was discountinued on the 22nd May 2024 and is no longer available.

This from Kainga Ora:

"As of 1pm, 22 May 2024 and at the direction of the Government, we are unable to accept any new applications for First Home Grants. All applications lodged before then will continue to be processed and we will be in touch with customers about their applications when needed." 

 

If you'd like any advice or help with applying for the above, our team are Registered Financial Advisors and our advice to you is free.

Latest News

Miller, Scott
27 May 2024

Published by Scott Miller

When can I use my KiwiSaver to purchase a house?

When can I use my KiwiSaver?
KiwiSaver is a voluntary, work based retirement savings scheme available to all citizens and permanent residents living or normally living in New Zealand.

  • Scott has been absolutely amazing in this home buying process.
    Ashley Bonham - 29 March 2025
  • We worked with Scott in securing our first home, and our experience was 10/10 from start to finish.
    He helped us in so many ways, especially since we had no idea what we were doing!
    He was always available to answer our questions and clearly explained everything step by step.
    Colette Cleary - 28 March 2025
  • Scott was very helpful with guiding us through the process of getting a home loan, highly recommend.
    Jake Badger - 25 March 2025
  • Greg has been fantastic in helping me purchase my first property. He made the whole process incredibly smooth and stress free from start to finish. Very supportive and helpful. Excellent and friendly service.
    Matthew Morgan - 24 March 2025
  • We worked with Scott to secure a mortgage for our first home. The process from beginning to end was exceptional. Not only did he help with securing a mortgage, but he helped out in many other ways for first home buyers, explaining all the small things you don't know about when looking for your first home! Always there on the other end for a phone call whenever needed.
    Thanks Scott and team.
    Damien and Colette Dunne - 19 March 2025