The Reserve Bank of New Zealand has increased the Official Cash Rate (OCR) by 25 basis points, taking it from 2.25% to 2.50% following its July 2026 review. For New Zealand borrowers, this marks an important change in direction. After holding the OCR at 2.25% through the earlier reviews of 2026, the Reserve Bank has … Read more
The Reserve Bank of New Zealand has held the Official Cash Rate (OCR) at 2.25% following its April 2026 Monetary Policy Review. At face value, this looks like a non-event. No change. No movement. But beneath the surface, the tone has shifted, and the implications for borrowers are more important than the headline. Quick Summary … Read more
The Reserve Bank of New Zealand has announced that the Official Cash Rate remains unchanged at 2.25 percent following its February 2026 Monetary Policy Review. This decision signals a continued cautious approach as inflation tracks within the target band while economic conditions gradually stabilise. For homeowners, buyers, and businesses, the OCR remains one of the … Read more
Refinancing your mortgage structure can be a powerful financial move, allowing you to reduce your interest costs, adjust your loan structure, and achieve long-term financial goals. Whether you’re looking to lower your monthly outgoings, consolidate debt, or access home equity, understanding the refinancing process is crucial. In this guide, The Advice Group (TAG) breaks down … Read more
Understanding the Mortgage Landscape in 2025 Navigating the mortgage market in 2025 requires a keen understanding of interest rates, economic conditions, and lender policies. With the official cash rate that is set by the Reserve Bank of New Zealand, mortgage interest rates continue to shift, affecting both new buyers and existing homeowners. As inflation trends … Read more
The Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ), also known as New Zealand Te Pūtea Matua, has released its first Official Cash Rate (OCR) announcement for 2025. As widely expected by market analysts, the Monetary Policy Committee has announced a 0.50% cut, bringing the OCR down to 3.75%. This decision aligns with the central bank’s goal … Read more
What are Interest Rates in NZ? Definition of Interest Rates Interest rates determine the cost of borrowing a lump sum of money, expressed as a percentage of the loan amount. In New Zealand, interest rates are essential for both borrowers and lenders, as they influence the overall cost of loans and the return on investments. … Read more
When obtaining a mortgage, the interest rate is one of the most critical factors to consider. Even a slight difference in the interest rate can significantly impact your monthly payments and the total amount you’ll pay over the life of your mortgage. That’s where getting mortgage advice from mortgage brokers comes in. In this blog … Read more
A mortgage is one of the most significant financial decisions a person can make in their lifetime, but navigating the process of obtaining a home loan can be daunting. That’s why seeking mortgage advice from a trusted mortgage broker or adviser is crucial. Mortgage brokers have access to a range of lenders and home loans, … Read more
As a homeowner, you may have the option to refix your home loan. This could be a great way to secure a lower interest rate and save money on your monthly payments. However, it’s important to understand the different refix options available to you, and how each one can impact you financially. What’s a home … Read more