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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Struggling with mortgage repayments? The most crucial step is to talk to your lender immediately to explore options and avoid default. They can offer solutions like financial hardship assistance, switching to interest-only payments, or a temporary repayment holiday.

Other avenues include seeking free advice from services like MoneyTalks or, as a last resort, a Kiwisaver hardship withdrawal. Ignoring the issue can eventually lead to a mortgagee sale, so proactive communication with your bank is essential.

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