Feature article

First home buyers hit a record high

With values down 18% from the peak and high stock levels, everyday Kiwi are seizing their chance to buy.

Kelvin Davidson
Last updated: 17 August 2026 | 4 min read
AI

AI summary

First home buyers are taking advantage of current market conditions, reaching a record high market share of over 28% in Q2. This nationwide trend is driven by property values being 18% below their peak and high stock levels providing more choice.

According to Kelvin Davidson of Cotality, buyers are successfully using:

- KiwiSaver withdrawals for deposits

- Low-deposit lending allowances from banks

These factors are creating a significant opportunity for more Kiwis to purchase their own home.

A winning streak from the Winterless North to the Deep South

How are they doing it?

Author

Kelvin Davidson Kelvin Davidson
Chief Property Economist, Cotality