Buying guide
Using KiwiSaver to buy your first home: how it works
Saving a deposit can be hard for first home buyers. Luckily, KiwiSaver and other schemes can help you out.
Last updated: 18 September 2026
AI summary
You can use a First Home Withdrawal from your KiwiSaver for a deposit after three years of membership, leaving a minimum $1,000 balance. Apply directly to your provider with a signed sale agreement, allowing at least 10-15 working days for processing to avoid settlement delays.
This can be paired with a First Home Loan, underwritten by Kāinga Ora, which allows for a deposit as low as 5% but has income and regional price caps.
In this article you’ll learn:
Can I use my KiwiSaver to buy a house?
Using KiwiSaver can make the maths on buying your first home a little less scary.
Your KiwiSaver manager will help you apply for your withdrawal.
The First Home Loan: using KiwiSaver alongside a low deposit
You'll need to check the eligibility criteria if you're going to apply for the First Home Loan.
How much deposit do you actually need?
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