KiwiSaver, from first home and beyond
Use KiwiSaver to get into your first home, then set it up to keep growing for the rest of your life.
KiwiSaver does two big jobs for young families: it can become your first home deposit, and it builds your savings for retirement. Getting the most from it comes down to being in the right fund, contributing enough to get the full government contribution, and timing your first home withdrawal well.
Prepare: KiwiSaver for your first home
After three years as a member, you can usually withdraw everything except $1,000 to buy your first home. For a couple, that's two withdrawals, which often covers most or all of a 5% deposit under the Kāinga Ora First Home Loan.
I help you check you're eligible, choose a fund that suits a short timeframe, and make sure the withdrawal is ready when your lawyer needs it.
- How to withdraw your KiwiSaver for your first home, step by step
- Kāinga Ora First Home Loan and KiwiSaver: buying with a 5% deposit
- KiwiSaver first home calculator
Beyond: after you've bought
Once you've withdrawn, your KiwiSaver starts again from $1,000, and your timeframe jumps to retirement. That's when a few settings make a big difference over the years:
- Your fund. A long timeframe often suits a growth fund, but it depends on how you feel about ups and downs.
- Your contribution rate. The default is 3.5% from April 2026, rising to 4% in April 2028. Your employer matches the default rate.
- The government contribution. Contribute at least $1,042.86 each year from 1 July to 30 June to get the full $260.72.
- Your kids. Starting KiwiSaver for children builds a habit, and maybe their own first home deposit one day.
KiwiSaver providers I work with
I can recommend schemes from Booster, Generate and Kernel, and I'll explain the fees and fund options clearly before you decide.
What it costs
For most people, KiwiSaver advice costs nothing, because the provider pays me. Where a provider doesn't, a small advice fee may apply. The details are in my disclosure.
Common questions
Which KiwiSaver fund is best for buying a first home?
It depends on how soon you're buying and how you feel about ups and downs. If you're buying within a couple of years, a lower-risk fund is often more suitable. If retirement is your goal, a growth fund may suit. Personal advice helps here.
Can my kids join KiwiSaver?
Yes, children of any age can join. From age 16, they can get the government contribution if they contribute themselves. It's a simple way to start a long-term saving habit.
What happens to KiwiSaver while I'm on parental leave?
Contributions usually stop if you're not earning. You can make voluntary contributions to keep getting the government contribution, which needs at least $1,042.86 a year for the full amount.
Let's talk about your family's plan
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