The EECA Warmer Kiwi Homes Grant Has Been Expanded – What Does That Mean for Homeowners
The EECA Warmer Kiwi Homes programme helps New Zealanders make their homes warmer, drier, and more energy efficient. It provides funding towards the cost of insulation and heating for eligible households, reducing the upfront cost of these important upgrades.
Since the programme began, over 170,000 heating and insulation projects have been completed across the country. Helping thousands of families live in healthier homes. Now, the Government has expanded the programme so more people can access support.
What is EECA Warmer Kiwi Homes
Warmer Kiwi Homes is managed by the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA). The programme provides grants of up to 90% towards the cost of ceiling and underfloor insulation for households in the most financially stretched communities. It now also funds up to 90% of the cost of an energy-efficient heater.
Until now, eligibility was mainly limited to low-income households or those in the highest deprivation areas. The grants have made it possible for many families to make improvements that would otherwise have been out of reach.
What Has Changed
From 5 August 2025, the eligibility criteria have been widened to include more middle-income households. This means thousands of homes that did not previously qualify could now get financial help.
The biggest change is for households in deciles 5 and 6 on the deprivation scale. These households are now eligible for a 50% grant towards insulation. This support was not available before.
Other key updates include:
- Households in decile 7 will still be eligible for insulation grants. The grant rate has changed from 80% to 50%.
- Households in decile 8 will keep their 80% insulation grant, but heating grants will no longer be available for this group.
- Households in the highest-need categories (deciles 9 and 10, and those with a Community Services Card or SuperGold Combo Card) will continue to receive up to 90% for insulation and up to 90%, capped at $3,450 for heating.
These changes are expected to make up to 300,000 more homes eligible for insulation grants.
Why This Matters for Homeowners
A well-insulated home is easier to heat in winter and stays cooler in summer. It also helps reduce power bills and improves overall comfort. EECA data shows that good insulation can save around $340 a year in heating costs.
Expanding the Warmer Kiwi Homes programme means more people can make these improvements sooner. Even if you did not qualify before, you may now be eligible for a 50% contribution towards the cost of insulating your home.
Heating grants remain targeted to those most in need, but for many households, improving insulation is the first and most effective step towards a warmer, drier home.
How to Check if You Qualify For Warmer Kiwi Homes Grant
Eligibility is based on where you live, whether you have a Community Services Card or SuperGold Combo Card, and your area’s deprivation decile rating. With the updated rules, even some households in the middle-income range may now be able to access funding.
If your home is in deciles 5, 6, or 7 and you have not been eligible before, it is worth checking again. The new grant rates could significantly reduce the cost of insulation work.
Applications made before 5 August 2025 will be assessed under the old rules unless the new rules give a better result. If the new rates are better for you, your installer can requote your job before installation takes place.
Take the Next Step
At Healthy Home Team, we help homeowners understand what funding is available with the EECA Warmer Kiwi Homes programme and can connect you with an approved service providers.
If you have been thinking about insulating your home or improving your heating, now is the time to see if you qualify. With the expanded programme, thousands more New Zealanders will be able to make their homes warmer, healthier, and more energy efficient.
Contact Healthy Home Team todayto find out if you are eligible for the EECA Warmer Kiwi Homes grant. Start your journey to a warmer, healthier home today.


