Buying guide

NZ Construction loans: Everything you need to know (2025)

The Trade Me Property guide to financing your next build

Ben Tutty
Last updated: 28 August 2025 | 9 min read
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Building a new home? Understanding NZ construction loans is your first step. You'll generally need a deposit of at least 10% of the total land and build cost.

Unlike standard mortgages, funds are released in stages via progress payments as construction milestones are met. Key contract types include simple Turn key packages or more flexible Build-only contracts. Be mindful of provisional costs (PCs) in your contract and secure extra pre-approval to avoid budget blowouts during the project.

How much deposit do I need for a construction loan?

How do construction loans work?

How to apply for a construction loan

You won't get far without finance.

How much can I borrow with a construction loan?

A closer look at construction loan progress payments

Types of construction contracts

1. Turn key

2. Build-only

The right loan can make building much easier.

A note on provisional costs (PCs)

Finding the right construction loan

Author

Ben Tutty Ben Tutty
Content Writer