What is the KiwiSaver HomeStart grant?

If you’re a first-time buyer and you’ve been making regular KiwiSaver contributions for at least 3 years, you may be able to apply for a First Home Grant (previously KiwiSaver HomeStart Grant) through Kāinga Ora.

How it works

If you buy an existing home, you can get $1,000 for each year you’ve paid into the scheme. The most you can get is $5,000 for 5 years.

If you buy a new home or land, you can get $2,000 for each year you’ve paid into the scheme. The most you can get is $10,000 for 5 years.

Who can apply

To apply, you must:

  • be 18 or older
  • have been contributing at least the minimum amount of your income (currently 3%) to your KiwiSaver scheme for 3 years
  • have had an income in the previous 12 months (before tax) of less than:
    • $85,000 for 1 person
    • $130,000 for 2 or more people
  • have a deposit of at least 5% of the purchase price
  • agree to live in your property for at least 6 months:
    • from the date you buy your home (the settlement date), or
    • if the house is new when the Code of Compliance Certificate is issued.