Are you confused about all the Kāinga Ora and first home buyer options?
There's a lot of mixed-up information out there about what's actually still available. Here's the quick version:
Kāinga Ora First Home Loan
A mortgage you get through the banks, backed by Kāinga Ora.
This is the only Kāinga Ora product still running.
Kāinga Ora First Home Grant
The $10,000 grant. This was discontinued in May 2024 and is no longer available.
Kāinga Ora First Home Partnership
A shared ownership scheme, discontinued a few years back.
Once you know which is which, it's a lot easier to work out what actually applies to you. Chat with a Nest adviser today to discover your options.
What's still available to you Kāinga Ora First Home Loan
This is the one that's still active, and the one most people mean when they ask about "Kāinga Ora help." It's a government-backed mortgage scheme that lets eligible first home buyers purchase with just a 5% deposit instead of the usual 20%. Kāinga Ora underwrites part of the loan, which gives banks the confidence to lend to buyers with a smaller deposit. It's not free money and it's not a grant, it's a full mortgage in your name, with income caps and price caps that vary depending on where you're buying.
Bank offers
Even without the grant, the banks themselves haven't stopped competing for first home buyers. Many still offer competitive interest rates, flexible lending criteria, and cashback deals worth several thousand dollars when you take out a new mortgage with them. These offers change often and vary a lot from lender to lender, so what's on the table with one bank might not be available at another, or might disappear in a few months. This is where it pays to have someone comparing the market on your behalf, rather than settling for the first offer you're shown.
KiwiSaver
If you've been contributing to KiwiSaver for more than three years, you can usually withdraw most of your balance and put it straight towards your deposit. It has nothing to do with Kāinga Ora directly, but it's often used alongside a First Home Loan to boost buying power. If you've owned property before but don't currently, you may still qualify for a second chance withdrawal.
Still not sure what applies to you? Read our full guide to first home buyer support or talk to a Nest adviser to find out exactly what you qualify for.
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Why Use Nest Home Loans As Your Mortgage Broker?
Zero cost to you.
You don't pay anything. We get paid by the bank once your loan settles, so your success is our success.
Multiple lenders, better chances.
What disqualifies you with one lender might be perfect for another. We know who’s likely to say yes.
Your own bank may not be the best option.
People often think their own bank will give the best deal – that’s not true! It’s common for Nest Home Loans to get lower interest rates by up to 1%, and it’s often not your own bank.
We coach you through the whole mortgage process.
We want you to focus on finding your home, while we take care of the mortgage stuff. From a great interest rate to structuring the mortgage to suit you, we'll provide advice and guidance to ensure your understand every step.
We coach you through the whole house buying process
Not only do we help you with the mortgage, but we guide you each step of the house buying process. From “how to make an offer” to going unconditional and settling, we break the process down into little chunks and give you one thing to focus on at a time.
We know this journey inside out.
We've guided thousands of people through exactly the same journey. What feels like uncharted territory to you is familiar ground for us.
Common myths debunked
Below are some common myths often holding people back, and some straight-up answers from Jeff to help you fast-track into home ownership.
Wish I had a dollar every time a first home buyer said this!
The truth is, the banks aren’t worried if you spend your money, as long as you are living within your means. This means paying bills, debts and rent on time. Enjoy your chai lattes and smashed avos, that’s not going to get your mortgage declined.
“I don’t have enough deposit, I want to save more”This one really trips budding homeowners up. There's a lot of rubbish in forums saying you need higher deposits, and it simply isn’t true.
I have had many prospective first home buyers preapproved and they could have bought, but they decided to save and come back 1-2 years later. When they come back, house prices have risen so their deposit is no bigger relative to house prices. And because house prices have risen, they need a bigger mortgage.
Life also often gets in the way while you are saving - you buy new cars or go overseas, so your well-intentioned savings plan doesn’t get you closer to the goal of home ownership.
“We don’t earn enough income, the banks won’t approve me”If you are in full time work, its rare you won’t be able to afford something. We can factor in things like boarders or flatmates into your income and make it work.
Sometimes it can be about having tough conversations about your “must-haves and nice-to-haves” with house expectations. Remember, your first home is not your forever home, its just a stepping stone that we have all gone through. No-one's first home was a mansion.
"We can’t find a home that ticks all our boxes”Your mortgage pre-approval lasts for 4-6 months. That is plenty of time to find something.
About half our Nest home owners make offers on homes within the first 2 weeks of talking to us. That’s because we give them the knowledge and confidence to go for it. And we talk a lot about setting expectations.
If you want the perfect first home – it will be a hard and costly journey. If you can compromise on some things – you will find something you can call “home” and make fond memories.
Lending Process
What our clients have to say.
I would especially highly recommend them to anyone in the neurodivergent community. They communicated clearly, were patient and responsive, and made everything feel manageable without adding unnecessary stress.
I felt genuinely well supported from beginning to end and couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Thank you so much, Donna and Hoani!
The whole team are incredibly friendly and supportive throughout, and we always felt in good hands. A special thank you to Jeff and Erana, you have both been amazing to work with. We’re so glad we were recommended Nest Home loans!
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Get expert insights, practical tips, and honest advice to help you take control of your finances and plan for the future. From decoding mortgage jargon to managing debt and building wealth, our team shares what you really need to know — no fluff, just facts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does using a mortgage broker cost me anything?
Not a cent. We're paid by the bank once your loan settles. This doesn’t affect the interest rate you get from the bank.
How much deposit do I need?
While many people think they need 20%, there are options available with as little as 5% deposit. We'll assess your situation and show you all the pathways available, including government schemes and lender programs that can help you get into your first home sooner than you think.
How long does it take to get a mortgage?
Once we submit your application, most lenders respond within 5-10 business days. However, the timeline can vary based on your situation and the lender. We keep you updated throughout the process and work to expedite approvals wherever possible.
What do you need from me to get a mortgage?
We'll provide you with a simple checklist during our first meeting, but typically we need proof of income, bank statements, identification, and details about your expenses. Don't worry if your paperwork isn't perfect – we'll guide you through exactly what's needed and help you present your application in the best possible light.
What's the current income limit for the Kainga Ora First Home Loans?
Income limits are $95,000 for single buyers without dependents, or $150,000 for couples or single buyers with dependents.
Can I use my KiwiSaver?
Yes, if you've been contributing for over three years. Contact your provider to confirm your withdrawal amount – it's usually less than your total balance.
What if I've previously owned property?
You might still qualify for KiwiSaver's ‘second chance withdrawal’ if you no longer own property. Life circumstances change, and this provision recognises that.
How long does the process take?
We handle all applications and bank communication, managing the timeline from assessment through to settlement. Most clients find the process much smoother than going it alone.
What happens after I buy?
We regularly review your mortgage for better terms and refinancing opportunities. As your property builds equity, we help identify strategic options for building wealth.
My question’s not here
Everyone’s situation is different, and that’s probably why it’s not here. We’d be happy to answer it, give us a call or fill in the form below.
Let’s get started.
Buying your first home can be daunting, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. No question is too big or
small, so contact us by phone or fill in the form to take that first step towards home ownership.
