Buying guide
Using KiwiSaver to buy your first home: how it works
Saving a deposit can be hard for first home buyers. Luckily, KiwiSaver and other schemes can help you out.
Last updated: 18 September 2026
AI summary
Your KiwiSaver can be a powerful tool for your first home deposit through a First Home Withdrawal. To qualify, you must:
- Be a member for at least three years
- Intend to live in the property for six months
Apply through your provider with a signed sale agreement, allowing at least 10-15 working days for processing. Many buyers also use the First Home Loan, underwritten by Kāinga Ora, to purchase with a 5% deposit, subject to income caps.
In this article you’ll learn:
Can I use my KiwiSaver to buy a house?
Using KiwiSaver can make the maths on buying your first home a little less scary.
Your KiwiSaver manager will help you apply for your withdrawal.
The First Home Loan: using KiwiSaver alongside a low deposit
You'll need to check the eligibility criteria if you're going to apply for the First Home Loan.
How much deposit do you actually need?
Getting the right advice
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