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Heartland Bank Reverse Mortgage

Learn about the Heartland Bank reverse mortgage. Features, eligibility, how it works, and the pros and cons.

Disclaimer: This is general information only and does not constitute financial advice. Terms, rates, and eligibility criteria are subject to change. Always confirm current details directly with Heartland Bank. We may receive referral fees from providers featured on this site.

Overview

Heartland Bank is one of New Zealand's two main reverse mortgage lenders, helping retirees unlock home equity to fund their retirement. With an established track record and comprehensive support services, Heartland is a well-known choice for many New Zealand homeowners.

How the Heartland Reverse Mortgage Works

1

Borrow Without Selling

Borrow against the value of your home without selling

2

No Repayments Required

No repayments required while you live there

3

Keep Living There

Continue living in your home with a contractual right to stay

4

Repayment Later

Loan plus interest repaid when you sell, move into care, or pass away

Key Features

No Negative Equity Guarantee

You'll never owe more than your home's value

Lifetime Occupancy Guarantee

Stay in your home for life

Flexible Drawdown Options

Lump sum or regular drawdown options

Age 60+ Eligibility

Available to homeowners aged 60+

Heartland at a Glance

2 of 2
Main NZ Lenders
One of two main reverse mortgage lenders in NZ
15+
Years Experience
Established market presence
1000s
Happy Customers
Chosen by Kiwi retirees

Rates and Lending Details

Interest Rates

Variable Rate
Typically 6.5% - 8.5% (indicative)
Contact for current rates
Rate Structure
Compound annually, no monthly payments

Maximum Loan Amounts

Age 60-64Up to 25%
Age 65-74Up to 40%
Age 75+Up to 60%

Example Scenario

For example, on an indicative $800,000 home at age 70, you could potentially access up to $320,000 (40%). This is illustrative only — actual amounts depend on individual circumstances and current rates. See the Heartland vs SBS comparison for exact current figures.

Eligibility Criteria

Minimum age: 60
Property: Standalone house, townhouse, or unit
Location: Most NZ locations accepted
Value: Minimum property value $350,000
Condition: Good structural condition required
Mortgage: Minimal or no existing mortgage

Pros

Established NZ provider with a long track record
Flexible drawdown options
Strong customer service reputation

Cons

Interest compounds over time
Reduces estate value
May affect benefit eligibility

Heartland Bank Advantages

Established Presence

As one of New Zealand's two main reverse mortgage lenders, Heartland has the experience and scale to offer competitive products and service.

  • • One of two main NZ reverse mortgage lenders
  • • Established track record since 2004
  • • Chosen by many Kiwi retirees

Customer Support

Heartland offers comprehensive support throughout the application process and ongoing relationship management.

  • • Dedicated customer service team
  • • Regular account reviews
  • • Educational resources and guidance

Flexible Options

Multiple drawdown options and repayment flexibility to suit different retirement funding needs.

  • • Lump sum or regular payments
  • • Voluntary repayments allowed
  • • Fixed-term options available

Nationwide Coverage

Heartland accepts properties in most New Zealand locations, including smaller towns and rural areas.

  • • All main centers accepted
  • • Many smaller towns included
  • • Rural properties considered

Application Process & Timeline

1

Initial Consultation

Free consultation with Heartland specialist

Timeline: Same day response

2

Application & Valuation

Complete application and property assessment

Timeline: 1-2 weeks

3

Conditional Approval

Receive conditional approval and loan terms

Timeline: 1-2 weeks

4

Legal Process

Independent legal advice and document signing

Timeline: 3-4 weeks

5

Funds Released

Settlement completed, funds available

Timeline: Settlement day

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Heartland's current reverse mortgage rates?

Heartland's rates are variable and typically range from an indicative 6.5% to 8.5%, depending on market conditions and individual circumstances. As an established lender, they aim to offer competitive rates. Contact Heartland directly for current pricing as rates change regularly, or see the Heartland vs SBS comparison for exact current figures.

How much can I borrow with Heartland Bank?

Loan-to-value ratios depend on your age. At age 65-74, you can typically access up to 40% of your home's value, and up to 60% at age 75+. For example, on an indicative $800,000 home at age 70, you could potentially access around $320,000. These figures are illustrative only.

Can I make voluntary repayments to reduce the balance?

Yes, Heartland allows voluntary repayments at any time without penalty for amounts up to 10% of the original loan annually. You can make interest payments to stop the balance growing, or capital repayments to reduce the principal amount.

What fees does Heartland charge?

Heartland typically covers the property valuation cost. You'll pay legal fees (indicatively $2,000-$4,000), and there may be an establishment fee. There are no ongoing fees, and no penalties for voluntary repayments within the annual limit.

Does Heartland offer fixed-rate options?

Yes, Heartland offers both variable and fixed-rate periods. Fixed rates can provide certainty over interest costs for a set period, typically 1-5 years. This can be particularly valuable for budgeting and financial planning.

Compare Your Options

Heartland is one of two established reverse mortgage providers in New Zealand. Consider comparing with SBS Bank to find the well-suited option for your needs.

Calculate Equity

Estimate how much you could release

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Get Legal Advice

Connect with qualified legal experts

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Compare All Options

See reverse mortgages vs home reversion

Compare Options

Ready to explore a Heartland reverse mortgage?

Contact Heartland Bank to discuss your reverse mortgage options. As an established lender, they offer competitive rates and comprehensive support throughout the process.

Heartland Bank reverse mortgage — key facts

Sourced from Heartland Reverse Mortgage Fact Sheet (20 January 2026).

Product
Heartland Reverse Mortgage
Interest rate
7.75% — per annum, variable, compounded monthly (as at 20 January 2026)
Minimum age
Borrowers aged over 60 (maximum two). One borrower aged 55–59 may be permitted if another borrower is over 60.
How much you can borrow
Age of youngest borrower minus 40 (see table below)
Minimum property value
$250,000
Property criteria
Residential, conventional construction, in good repair, your primary residence, mortgage-free or repayable by the loan. Location restrictions apply. Secondary Property Loans (e.g. holiday home / investment property) are available.
Ways to receive funds
Lump sum (minimum $10,000); Monthly advance ($300+/month, up to 10 years); Cash reserve facility
No-negative-equity protection
The amount required to repay the loan will never exceed the net sale proceeds of your property.
Also worth knowing
Equity Protection Option — protect up to 50% of the eventual net sale proceeds; 30-day cooling-off period; No early-repayment charges
Contact
0800 488 740

How much you could borrow, by age

Age of youngest borrower 60657075808590+
Max % of home’s value 20%25%30%35%40%45%50%

Key fees

  • Arrangement fee $920
  • Online valuation (i-val) $17.14
  • Full market valuation (if required) $850–$1,500
  • Mortgage discharge fee $270

Source: Heartland Reverse Mortgage Fact Sheet (20 January 2026) — heartland.co.nz. Rates, fees and lending criteria are set by the provider and change over time; figures reviewed 2026-07-07. Confirm current details with the lender or your Evolve adviser. General information only, not personalised financial advice.