First Home Buyers Grant In New Zealand
Updated June 2026
The First Home Grant helped many New Zealanders buy their first home, but the scheme officially ended in May 2024.
While the grant is no longer available, first-home buyers still have several pathways that may help make home ownership more achievable, including KiwiSaver withdrawals, First Home Loans and low-deposit lending options.
Understanding what has changed — and what support is still available — can help you plan your next steps with confidence and avoid relying on outdated information.
This guide explains how the First Home Grant worked, why it ended, what alternatives are available today and where first-home buyers can still access support when purchasing a home.
What Was The First Home Grant?
The First Home Grant was a government-backed scheme designed to help eligible first-home buyers build a deposit and purchase their first property.
Administered by Kāinga Ora, the grant provided financial assistance to qualifying buyers purchasing either an existing home or a new build. The amount available depended on the type of property being purchased and how long applicants had contributed to KiwiSaver or a complying superannuation fund.
For many first-home buyers, the grant worked alongside KiwiSaver withdrawals and traditional savings to help bridge the gap between their available deposit and lender requirements.
Although the scheme officially ended in May 2024, it remains one of the most searched first-home buyer topics in New Zealand. Many buyers still come across references to the grant when researching deposit assistance and government support.
KiwiSaver First Home Withdrawal
Eligible first-home buyers may be able to withdraw most of their KiwiSaver balance to help form part of their deposit.
Learn About KiwiSaver Withdrawals →
First Home Loan
Some eligible buyers may qualify for a First Home Loan, which can allow a purchase with a deposit as low as 5%, subject to lender and scheme criteria.
View First Home Loan Information →
Low Deposit Lending
Some lenders may still consider buyers with less than a 20% deposit, depending on income, expenses, credit history and overall application strength.
Understand Low Deposit Options →WHY IT CHANGED
Why Was The First Home Grant Removed?
The First Home Grant ended in May 2024 after the Government changed its approach to first-home buyer support.
The scheme had been designed to help eligible buyers increase their deposit, but housing support settings have changed over time. Instead of relying on the grant, many first-home buyers now need to focus on the support options that are still available.
For most buyers, this means understanding whether KiwiSaver can be used, whether a First Home Loan could apply, how much deposit is needed, and what banks will look for when assessing the application.
The Key Point
The grant has ended, but first-home buyers may still be able to buy with the help of KiwiSaver, low-deposit lending options and a well-prepared home loan application.
COMMON QUESTION
Could The First Home Grant Return?
There is currently no announced plan to reintroduce the First Home Grant.
Government housing policies can change over time, but as of June 2026 there has been no confirmation that the scheme will return.
Because housing support programmes can be introduced, amended or removed by future governments, first-home buyers should make decisions based on the support options that exist today rather than waiting for a grant to return.
For most buyers, understanding KiwiSaver withdrawals, low-deposit lending options and lender requirements is likely to have a greater impact than waiting for a future policy change.
COMMON QUESTIONS
First Home Buyers Grant FAQs
These are the common questions first-home buyers still ask about the First Home Grant, what changed, and what options may still be available.
Is the First Home Grant still available?
No. The First Home Grant officially ended in May 2024 and is no longer available to new applicants.
When did the First Home Grant end?
The First Home Grant ended in May 2024. Buyers researching first-home support should now focus on current options such as KiwiSaver first home withdrawals, First Home Loans and low-deposit lending.
Can I still use KiwiSaver to buy my first home?
Yes. Eligible first-home buyers may still be able to use a KiwiSaver first home withdrawal as part of their deposit. KiwiSaver withdrawal rules are separate from the old First Home Grant.
What replaced the First Home Grant?
There has not been a direct replacement for the First Home Grant. However, some buyers may still be able to use KiwiSaver withdrawals, First Home Loan options, savings, gifted deposits or low-deposit lending to help purchase their first home.
Can I buy my first home with a 5% deposit?
Some eligible buyers may be able to buy with a 5% deposit through a First Home Loan or other lender options, subject to lender criteria, income, expenses, credit history and property requirements.
Should I wait to see if the First Home Grant comes back?
There is currently no confirmed plan to bring back the First Home Grant. If you are planning to buy, it is usually better to understand the options available now rather than waiting for a future policy change.
Is the First Home Loan the same as the First Home Grant?
No. The First Home Grant was a deposit contribution that ended in May 2024. The First Home Loan is different and may allow eligible buyers to purchase with a lower deposit through participating lenders.
What should first-home buyers do now?
Start by understanding your deposit position, checking whether KiwiSaver may be available, reviewing your spending and getting clear on what lenders may be willing to approve before you begin making offers.
