Important upfront: the rules, thresholds and even the existence of these schemes can change. Treat this as a starting point for the conversation with your lender or KiwiSaver provider, not the final word — always check the current official settings before you rely on either.
KiwiSaver first home withdrawal
If you've been contributing to KiwiSaver for a while and haven't owned property before (or qualify as a previous owner in a similar financial position to a first home buyer), you may be able to withdraw most of your KiwiSaver balance to put toward a first home. A portion usually needs to stay in your account.
First Home Grant
Alongside KiwiSaver, there has historically been a government grant available to eligible first home buyers, on top of what they withdraw from KiwiSaver. Eligibility has typically depended on things like income caps, how long you've been contributing, and price caps on the property itself — all of which are exactly the kind of detail that changes over time.
Quick tip
Start this conversation with your KiwiSaver provider or a mortgage adviser months before you plan to buy, not the week you find a house. Withdrawals and grant applications take time to process.
How it fits into your timeline
Generally, you'd apply for the withdrawal (and grant, if available) once you have an accepted offer, and the funds get used toward settlement. Your lawyer and mortgage adviser handle most of the coordination — your job is mostly making sure you've started the paperwork early enough that it doesn't hold up settlement.
If you want to talk through where you're at, I'm happy to help point you toward the right people — I work with mortgage advisers regularly.
This is general information only, not financial advice. Scheme names, eligibility and thresholds change — confirm current details with Kāinga Ora, IRD, or your mortgage adviser before making decisions.
