The rates you see are not always what you’ll get!

Did you know that the mortgage rates you see advertised aren't always what you’ll actually end up paying? What the banks promote publicly often differs from what a skilled mortgage adviser can secure on your behalf — and the savings can be significant.

OCR Holds Steady, but Banks Are Already Moving

As of 7 July 2025, the Reserve Bank has paused its rate-cutting cycle, keeping the Official Cash Rate (OCR) at 3.25%, down from 5.5% in August 2024. While this decision was expected, many banks have already adjusted their mortgage rates downward in anticipation of further easing.

Here’s a quick snapshot of the lowest fixed mortgage rates currently on offer:

But here's the catch: these are just the published rates. Mortgage advisers can often negotiate even sharper deals behind the scenes, leveraging relationships with lenders and access to unadvertised promotions or package discounts.

The Psychology of Today’s Borrower

We’re seeing a shift in borrower behaviour. After a year of rapid OCR cuts, many Kiwis are opting for 1–2 year fixed terms, choosing stability while betting rates won’t fall much further.

Some are even keeping their repayments at higher levels than required, using this period to pay off more principal and get ahead.

But with economic uncertainty still looming — from job security concerns to global trade pressures — more borrowers are holding onto their cash rather than funnelling it back into the property market.

Our Tip? Don’t Go It Alone.

If you’re about to re-fix or take out a new loan, speak to a trusted mortgage adviser first.

We recommend Jiji from Vega Lend — she's sharp, knowledgeable, and gets results. Her clients often secure better-than-bank rates and structures that save money in the long run.

With rates moving, the housing market adjusting, and economic uncertainty still in play, now more than ever it pays to have expert guidance.