Home Energy Grant

Warmer Kiwi Homes

Warmer Kiwi Homes is a co-funding programme from the Energy Efficiency & Conservation Authority (EECA) that pays a percentage of insulation costs and a capped heat-pump grant for eligible homeowners. The grant structure shifted to percentage-based in recent years: Community Services Card holders and those in higher-need areas get 90% of insulation costs covered.

What is this?

Warmer Kiwi Homes is administered by EECA. Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act 2000

Am I eligible?

Own and live in a home built before 2008
You (or the owner) hold a Community Services Card, or the property is in a lower-income area, or the household qualifies for the standard tier
Insulation or an approved fixed heater (typically a heat pump) is needed

How much could I get?

Insulation coverage: 90% for highest-need households, 80% mid-tier, 50% standard.

Heating: 90% of the cost up to a maximum grant of $3,450 toward an approved heat pump.

Wood/pellet burners are no longer funded from 9 January 2026.

Rates current as of Budget 2025. Personal amounts depend on your situation.

How to apply

Check eligibility at the Warmer Kiwi Homes website
Contact an approved service provider in your area
Get an assessment of your home's insulation and heating needs
Service provider handles the grant application on your behalf

Documents you'll need

· Proof of home ownership (rates notice or title)
· Community Services Card (if applicable, for higher coverage %)
· Home address and year built

EECA application →

Frequently asked questions

Is Warmer Kiwi Homes still available in 2026?

Yes. The programme is ongoing, but the funding model is percentage-based rather than flat-dollar, and wood/pellet burners are no longer covered from 9 January 2026. Heat pumps remain the primary supported heating option.

Who qualifies for the highest Warmer Kiwi Homes subsidy?

Community Services Card holders and households in higher-need areas get 90% of insulation costs covered. Mid-tier households get 80%, and the standard rate is 50%.

Can I get Warmer Kiwi Homes if I rent?

Only homeowners can apply directly. Renters can't claim, but landlords who own a pre-2008 rental may be eligible — encourage your landlord to apply before winter.

Related benefits you might also qualify for

Community Services Card

The Community Services Card cuts GP fees, prescription costs and unlocks higher subsidies. See 2026 income thresholds and how to apply via MyMSD.

Winter Energy Payment

Winter Energy Payment pays $20.46–$31.82/week from 1 May to 1 October to benefit recipients and NZ Super. See eligibility and how it's paid.

Rates Rebate

The Rates Rebate pays up to $805 toward council rates. See 2026 income threshold ($32,210), per-dependent uplift, and the 30 June deadline.

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