First Home Partner

First Home Partner is a shared ownership scheme for first home buyers, where you can buy a home with Kāinga Ora – Homes and Communities.
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First Home Partner

This scheme is currently fully subscribed, this means Kāinga Ora aren't accepting any new applications. If you currently have a First Home Partner loan and have any questions please get in touch with either a home loan specialist or Kāinga Ora.

Key features & benefits

  • You could get into your first home with as little as 5% deposit

  • Kāinga Ora may contribute up to 25% of the purchase price or $200,000, whichever is lower

  • Sharing ownership with Kāinga Ora may get you on the property ladder sooner

  • If you have KiwiSaver, you may be eligible to make a withdrawal or use First Home Grant as well.

How it works

  • Shared ownership

    You'll have a shared ownership agreement with Kāinga Ora to purchase the home together. Kāinga Ora contributes up to 25% of the purchase price or $200,000, whichever is lower. You'll be the majority homeowner and occupier, and will need to buy out the Kāinga Ora share over time.

  • Eligibility

    You'll need to meet First Home Partner eligibility requirements. Once you have an eligibility confirmation letter from Kāinga Ora, talk to a home loan specialist about getting conditional approval.

  • Managing your home

    You choose how to structure your home loan and are responsible for the regular payments. You'll also cover all of the property-related costs and will need to commit to living in the home for at least three years. You'll need to receive permission from Kāinga Ora before you make any improvements or renovations.

  • Full ownership

    You'll meet with a Kāinga Ora relationship manager each year to review how you’re tracking towards the goal of achieving full home ownership.

Find out more at Kāinga Ora

Let's get you into your first home

Our home loan specialists will work with you to see if First Home Partner would suit. Our tools can also help you through the journey of buying your first home.

Talk to a specialist

Our home loan specialists can walk you through the process of buying a home and discuss what your options are.

Find a specialist

First home buyer calculator

Our first home buyer calculator allows you to work out how much you may be able to borrow and compare different repayment scenarios.

Calculate now

Home loan standard terms and conditions

Displayed interest rates are subject to change. Kiwibank’s lending criteria, terms and conditions, and fees apply.