KiwiSaver first home withdrawal form: documents and steps

Eligibility

• You've been in KiwiSaver for at least 3 years
• You're buying your first home — or you've previously owned but Kāinga Ora has confirmed you're in the same financial position as a first-home buyer
• The home will be your primary place of residence (not an investment)
• The property is in New Zealand

What you can withdraw

You can withdraw everything except $1,000 from your KiwiSaver account. That includes:

• Your contributions
• Your employer contributions
• Government contributions
• All investment returns

The $1,000 minimum balance keeps your account active.

Where to get the KiwiSaver first home withdrawal form

Download the current form or start the online application with your own KiwiSaver provider. Do not reuse another buyer's form: providers have different processes and update their documents.

1. Ask your provider for an eligibility estimate before house hunting.
2. Download its current first home withdrawal form or use its secure online process.
3. Tell your lawyer that KiwiSaver funds will form part of the purchase funds.
4. Submit the final application as soon as the signed transaction documents are available.

Provider lead times vary. Confirm the deadline directly instead of assuming funds can arrive at short notice.

Documents commonly required with the form

Your provider will confirm the exact list. Common requirements include:

• Completed provider application
• Certified identity and address evidence where requested
• Signed Sale and Purchase Agreement
• Solicitor or conveyancer letter and trust-account details
• Statutory declaration confirming eligibility and intended owner-occupation
• Previous-home-owner determination if your circumstances require one

The First Home Grant was discontinued in May 2024. It is separate from the KiwiSaver first home withdrawal, which remains available to eligible members.

Keep the withdrawal documents with the property pack

The withdrawal form, signed agreement, solicitor letter and provider questions all run against the same purchase deadline. Keep them with the property's LIM, building report and contract so you can see what is complete and what still needs action.

Frequently asked questions