Buying guide

How to get a 5% deposit home loan in NZ

Only got a little deposit saved? This article's for you.

Ben Tutty
Last updated: 27 August 2025 | 5 min read
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The First Home Loan scheme, backed by Kāinga Ora, helps eligible first-home buyers purchase a property with just a 5% deposit, bypassing the usual 20% requirement.

Eligibility is strict, with requirements for residency, income caps (e.g., under $95,000 for a single buyer), and owner-occupier status. Be aware of potentially higher interest rates.

Apply directly to participating lenders like Westpac and Kiwibank. Your deposit can be supplemented using your KiwiSaver or the First Home Grant.

5 percent deposit home loans NZ

Are you eligible for a home loan with a 5% deposit?

Saving a deposit can be challenging for first home buyers.

How to apply for the 5% deposit First Home Loan

The application process

There are several ways to get a deposit together to buy a home/

Getting a deposit together

Getting ready to buy

Author

Ben Tutty Ben Tutty
Content Writer