Buying guide

What happens if I can’t pay my mortgage?

Struggling to pay your bills? You have options. Here's a list of 11 things to do if you can’t pay your mortgage.

Ben Tutty
Last updated: 6 August 2025 | 8 min read
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If you're struggling with mortgage repayments, it's crucial to review your finances and contact your lender immediately to avoid default.

Your bank can offer several solutions to provide temporary relief, including:

- Financial hardship assistance

- Switching to interest-only payments

- Arranging a repayment holiday

Other options like loan restructuring or a Kiwisaver hardship withdrawal may also be available. Proactively seeking help is the best way to prevent a potential mortgagee sale and get back on track.

11 things to try if you can’t pay your mortgage

1. Take a close look at your finances

2. Get a little help

3. Talk to your lender right away

Your lender will suggest options to help reduce your repayments.

4. Request financial hardship assistance

5. Reduce your repayments

6. Switch to interest only

7. Use funds in your home loan

8. Restructure your loan

9. Try a repayment holiday or loan payment deferral

10. Check your insurance

If you're struggling to pay your mortgage there is help available.

11. Consider a Kiwisaver hardship withdrawal

What if I still can’t make repayments on my mortgage?

Stay calm and seek help

Author

Ben Tutty Ben Tutty
Content Writer