In the Western Bay of Plenty district, 75 people are receiving help to buy their first home through the Government's new $435 million KiwiSaver HomeStart scheme.
In April, the Government doubled support for first home buyers through KiwiSaver HomeStart. Couples can apply for grants of up to $10,000 for a
deposit on an existing home, and up to $20,000 for a new-build.
Bay of Plenty MP Todd Muller said in the Bay of Plenty alone there had been $305,000 in grants paid.
"Nationwide, HomeStart is proving to be very popular with almost 6,300 applications approved.
"Buying a first home is a huge step and I am pleased to see so many young families in the Bay are making the most of the support available.
"I would encourage all first-home buyers in the Bay of Plenty to check whether they are eligible. Over the next five years, HomeStart is expected to help 90,000 people achieve their dream of home ownership.
"KiwiSaver HomeStart is part of the Government's wider programme to improve housing supply and affordability. Housing Accords are freeing up more land faster and we have measures in place to constrain building material costs, rein in development contributions and compliance costs and improve productivity in the construction sector."
Papamoa resident Alyson Bell recently purchased a house with support from the KiwiSaver HomeStart scheme.
"The KiwiSaver HomeStart process got us into our amazing home a year and half sooner than we could have otherwise", Ms Bell said.
"Getting the first home grant was a straightforward process and took around 4-6 weeks. I filled out a form and provided the relevant supporting documents to prove we met the criteria."
