General information only. Confirm with the agency for your situation. Spotted something out of date? Email help@unemployed.nz.
Mortgage and rent hardship comparator
See what interest-only months do to your repayments and total interest, and plan rent arrears.
If you have a mortgage
Use your current rate, e.g. 5.5.
Enter your balance, rate and years left to compare.
Simplified: fixed rate, monthly payments, no fees or rate changes. Your lender decides what it will offer. Under the Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Act, lenders must consider a reasonable hardship request. Ask for the offer in writing, and for the total extra cost. Free help: MoneyTalks 0800 345 123.
If you rent and are behind
Enter rent and arrears to see a repayment plan.
Ask your landlord for a written repayment plan and keep paying current rent if you can. Tenancy Services (tenancy.govt.nz) explains your rights, and Work and Income may help with rent arrears in some cases.