Buying guide
Everything you need to know about home loan deposits in New Zealand
Your straightforward guide to home loan deposits in Aotearoa.
.png)
AI summary
Understanding your home loan deposit is a crucial first step for buying property in New Zealand. While a 20% deposit is standard, several options can help you enter the market sooner.
Eligible buyers can use their KiwiSaver funds or apply for a First Home Loan, which may only require a 5% deposit. Lenders prefer 'genuine savings' and view a larger deposit as lower risk, potentially leading to better loan terms and interest rates.
What you'll learn
How much deposit is needed to buy a house in NZ?
| Region | Average asking price | Deposit needed (20%) | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Auckland | Auckland | $1,006,000 | $1,006,000 | $201,000 | $201,000 |
| Wellington | Wellington | $788,000 | $788,000 | $158,000 | $158,000 |
| Canterbury | Canterbury | $698,000 | $698,000 | $140,000 | $140,000 |
Most home deposits are around 20% of the property's asking price.
Why do lenders care about my home loan deposit?
What can I use for my home loan deposit?
Using your KiwiSaver for your home loan deposit
Using your KiwiSaver can be a big help in reaching your home loan goals.
What is the First Home Loan scheme?
Quick tips for saving for a home loan deposit
Author
Discover More
Bombing champ returns to family land to reclaim the bach his grandfather left him
Hads Te Huia restores his family's historic Kawhia bach and reconnects with four generations of whānau history.
Dated 1950s duplex gets a new kitchen voted one of the four best in NZ
From a 1950s duplex to luxury homes, these are New Zealand’s top award-winning kitchens of 2026.
Search
Other articles you might like
