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? A construction loan is your first step. You'll typically need a 10% deposit on the total land and build cost. Funds are released in stages as your build progresses, often with interest-only payments during construction.

To apply, you'll need a land agreement, builder's contract, consents, and a registered valuation. Choose between a simple turn-key contract with price certainty or a more flexible build-only contract for a customised home.

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