Buying guide

Everything you need to know about home loan deposits in New Zealand

Your straightforward guide to home loan deposits in Aotearoa.

Al Hall
Last updated: 26 August 2025 | 7 min read
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A home loan deposit is typically 20% of a property's value, but low-deposit options are available. First-home buyers may qualify for the First Home Loan scheme, which requires only a 5% deposit.

Lenders often require at least 5% from genuine savings. You can also use your KiwiSaver funds if you've been a member for three years. While the First Home Grant has ended, the loan scheme remains a key pathway to ownership for eligible buyers.

What you'll learn

How much deposit is needed to buy a house in NZ?

How much is a 20% deposit in your region? (July 2025)
RegionAverage asking priceDeposit needed (20%)
AucklandAuckland$1,006,000$1,006,000$201,000$201,000
WellingtonWellington$788,000$788,000$158,000$158,000
CanterburyCanterbury$698,000$698,000$140,000$140,000

Most home deposits are around 20% of the property's asking price.

Why do lenders care about my home loan deposit?

What can I use for my home loan deposit?

Using your KiwiSaver for your home loan deposit

Using your KiwiSaver can be a big help in reaching your home loan goals.

What is the First Home Loan scheme?

Quick tips for saving for a home loan deposit

Author

Al Hall Al Hall
Content Writer