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Reverse Mortgage vs Lifetime Home
If you own your home outright but find that NZ Super doesn’t stretch far enough, you’re not alone. Around two thirds of New Zealanders aged over 65 own their home, yet many have little to no savings beyond superannuation. The
What is a Reverse Mortgage? An Ultimate Guide
Retirement often brings a challenge that catches people off guard. You may own your home outright, but find that NZ Superannuation alone doesn’t cover the lifestyle you expected. A reverse mortgage is one way to bridge that gap, allowing you
Kāinga Ora First Home Loan: How It Works and How to Apply
Saving for a 20% home deposit can feel like a stretch, especially when rent and everyday costs keep climbing. The Kāinga Ora First Home Loan is a government-backed scheme designed to help eligible New Zealand buyers purchase their first home
A Guide to Buying Your First Home
Buying your first home in New Zealand is one of the biggest financial decisions you will make. Between government schemes, lending restrictions, deposit requirements and the buying process itself, there is a lot to get your head around before you
Tips for Getting a Sole Trader or Self-Employed Home Loan
If you run your own business, work as a contractor, or freelance for a living, you’ve probably heard that getting a mortgage is harder when you’re self-employed. There’s some truth in that. Banks do ask for more paperwork, and the
Fixed vs Floating Interest Rates in New Zealand
If you’re buying your first home, refixing your mortgage, or thinking about refinancing, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to choose a fixed or floating interest rate. It’s a question we get asked almost every day. And
Debt to Income Ratio NZ: What the DTI Rules Mean for Home Buyers
Last updated: January 2026 | Reviewed by Matt Willoughby, Registered Financial Adviser (FSP702911) If you’re looking to buy a home in New Zealand, you’ve probably heard about debt to income ratios. Since 1 July 2024, the Reserve Bank of New
What is a Non-Bank Lender
What is a Non-Bank Lender? Your Complete Guide to Alternative Lending in New Zealand When seeking finance in NZ, whether for property, business working capital, or addressing unexpected cash flow challenges, most people immediately think of traditional banks. However, there’s
Benefits of Income Protection Insurance in New Zealand
As a Kiwi, your ability to earn an income is one of your most valuable assets. It pays the mortgage or the rent, keeps the fridge stocked with food, covers school fees for your kids, and gives you the freedom
What is Shareholder Protection Insurance?
If you’re a business owner in New Zealand, chances are you’ve thought about growing revenue, managing costs, or hiring staff. But here’s a tougher question: what would happen to your business if one of the shareholders became permanently disabled or
What is Life Insurance? Types, Costs & Benefits Explained
Life insurance is one of those financial products many people know they should think about, but often push aside until later in life. At its core, life insurance is a contract between you and an insurer. You agree to pay
Are Non-Bank Lenders Safe
Kiwis are resourceful, but when a traditional bank turns down a loan or imposes rigid criteria, even the most diligent borrower can feel stuck. Non-bank lenders promise faster approvals, flexible credit assessment requirements, and loan options that suit first-home buyers,