Buying guide

NZ government help for first home buyers (2025)

Need a hand from the man?

Last updated: 8 March 2025 | 4 min read

AI summary

First home buyers in New Zealand can access several government support schemes. The First Home Loan, underwritten by Kāinga Ora, helps eligible buyers purchase a home with as little as a 5% deposit, subject to income caps.

Other initiatives include:

- Kāinga Whenua Loans to help Māori build on ancestral land.

- Tenant Home Ownership for some Kāinga Ora tenants.

- KiwiSaver first home withdrawal.

Note the First Home Grant was scrapped in 2023. Alternative paths include rent-to-own schemes.

Government housing initiatives for home buyers

First Home Loans

Need a hand with your deposit?

Kāinga Whenua Loans

Tenant home ownership

Kiwisaver first home withdrawal

Ready to buy your first home?

The First Home Buyer’s Grant

Other ways to get help

Author

Ben Tutty

Content Writer

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