Using your KiwiSaver for your first home
For many first-home buyers, KiwiSaver is the biggest part of their deposit. Here’s how the first home withdrawal works, and how to make sure your money is ready when you need it.
If you’ve been a KiwiSaver member for at least three years and are buying a home to live in, you can usually withdraw your savings for your first home. You can take out your own, your employer’s and the government’s contributions and any returns, but must leave at least $1,000 in your account. The money is paid to your lawyer before settlement.
Reviewed by Kyle Hasson, Insurance and KiwiSaver Adviser (FSP1010252) · Updated October 2026
How we help
- Check you’re eligible: including if you’ve owned a home before.
- Time it right: apply early so funds are ready for settlement.
- Review your fund: so a market drop doesn’t shrink your deposit just before you buy.
- Line up your mortgage: our mortgage advisers work alongside Kyle.
Who can withdraw?
- You’ve been a KiwiSaver member for at least three years
- You’re buying a home to live in, not an investment property
- You haven’t owned a home before, or you’re in a similar financial position to a first-home buyer (Kāinga Ora assesses these “second chance” applications)
What can you take out?
| Part of your balance | Can you withdraw it? |
|---|---|
| Your contributions | Yes |
| Employer contributions | Yes |
| Government contributions | Yes |
| Investment returns | Yes |
| Money transferred from an Australian super scheme | No |
| The minimum balance | No, at least $1,000 must stay in |
How the process works
- Check your eligibility and balance with your KiwiSaver provider.
- Get mortgage pre-approval so you know your budget.
- Once you have an agreement to buy, your lawyer helps complete the withdrawal application.
- Your provider pays the money to your lawyer’s trust account before settlement.
Processing times vary by provider, so don’t leave it to the last minute, especially for auctions or short settlements.
Protect your deposit before you buy
If you’re buying in the next year or two, a high-growth fund could fall in value right before you need the money. Many people move to a lower-risk fund as their purchase gets closer. It’s worth a conversation before you start house hunting.
Sources and further reading: Inland Revenue: KiwiSaver · Kāinga Ora: first home support
Kyle Hasson is an Insurance and KiwiSaver Adviser at Moneyplant in Papakura (FSP1010252), with a New Zealand Certificate in Financial Services (Level 5). Meet the team
This is general information only and isn’t personalised financial advice. Everyone’s situation is different, so please talk to one of our advisers before making decisions about your KiwiSaver.
First home withdrawal questions
Can’t see your question? Give us a call or send us a message. See our public disclosure for details of our fees and commissions.
How long does a KiwiSaver first home withdrawal take?
It varies by provider, but allow a couple of weeks once your application is complete. Talk to your lawyer and provider early, especially for auctions or short settlement dates.
Can both partners use their KiwiSaver?
Yes. If you’re buying together and you’re both eligible, you can each make a withdrawal.
Can I use KiwiSaver for a new build?
Often, yes, but the timing and paperwork differ for new builds and off-the-plans purchases. Get advice before you sign the contract.
Can I use KiwiSaver to buy land?
You can withdraw to buy land you intend to build your home on, subject to the rules. Check with your provider and lawyer first.
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