KiwiSaver First Home Withdrawal: Eligibility and How to Apply
A complete guide to withdrawing KiwiSaver savings for a first home purchase in New Zealand — eligibility criteria, how much you can withdraw, and the application process.
Published 20 February 2026
One of KiwiSaver’s most popular features is the ability to withdraw your savings to help buy your first home. Combined with the First Home Grant, KiwiSaver can provide a significant boost to your deposit. Here’s everything you need to know.
Eligibility Criteria
To make a KiwiSaver first home withdrawal, you must:
- Have been a KiwiSaver member for at least 3 years
- Be purchasing your first home (or be in the same financial position as a first home buyer — see below)
- Be buying a home to live in (not an investment property)
- Be at least 18 years old
”Same Financial Position” Rule
If you’ve previously owned a home but are now in a similar financial position to a first home buyer (e.g., you experienced relationship property division or financial hardship), you may still be eligible. You’ll need to apply to your KiwiSaver provider with supporting evidence, and they may refer your case to Kainga Ora for assessment.
How Much Can You Withdraw?
You can withdraw almost all of your KiwiSaver balance, including:
- Your own contributions
- Employer contributions (net of ESCT)
- Investment returns earned on your balance
You must leave a minimum of $1,000 in your KiwiSaver account. The government member tax credit portion is also available for withdrawal.
The First Home Grant
In addition to your KiwiSaver withdrawal, you may be eligible for the First Home Grant from Kainga Ora:
| Property type | Grant per year of membership |
|---|---|
| Existing home | $1,000/year (up to $5,000) |
| New build | $2,000/year (up to $10,000) |
For a couple where both partners qualify with 5+ years of membership, that’s up to $10,000 for an existing home or $20,000 for a new build.
First Home Grant Income Caps
| Buyer type | Income cap (previous 12 months) |
|---|---|
| Single buyer | $95,000 |
| Two or more buyers | $150,000 combined |
House Price Caps
The property must be below regional price caps set by Kainga Ora. These vary by location and are updated periodically. Check the Kainga Ora website for current caps in your area.
How to Apply for the Withdrawal
- Get a signed sale and purchase agreement for your property (conditional agreements are accepted)
- Contact your KiwiSaver provider to request a first home withdrawal
- Complete the application form with property details and your solicitor’s information
- Provide identification and any supporting documents
- Your provider processes the withdrawal and sends funds to your solicitor’s trust account before settlement
Processing typically takes 5-10 working days, so apply well before your settlement date.
Applying for the First Home Grant
The First Home Grant is a separate application through Kainga Ora (formerly Housing New Zealand). Apply online at the Kainga Ora website with evidence of your income, KiwiSaver membership, and property details.
Important Considerations
- You can’t withdraw for an investment property — you must intend to live in the home
- Building a home: You can withdraw for land purchase or a house-and-land package, as well as an existing property
- Timing: Get your withdrawal application in early to avoid settlement delays
- Your KiwiSaver continues: After withdrawal, your KiwiSaver account stays open and contributions continue from your next pay
Related Tools and Guides
- KiwiSaver Calculator — See how your contribution rate affects your take-home pay and employer match
- KiwiSaver Contribution Rates Guide — Compare the 3%, 4%, 6%, 8%, and 10% contribution rates
- KiwiSaver Government Contribution 2025-26 — How the annual $521.43 government contribution works