Big banks join the rate war, dropping below 3%

Big banks join the rate war, dropping below 3%

Newspapers being printed on a commercial printer

Earlier this week the China Construction Bank led the way with a rate cut, which was followed by speculation that the mainstream banks would compete by moving just below the 3% mark. So far, we’ve seen two of the main banks drop their rates to now have a 2 in front of them.

Today, ASB has announced its two-year fixed rate of 2.99% while Kiwibank has introduced a one-year fixed rate of 2.99%.

ASB chief economist said that their two-year rate would put more money in people's pockets and give them more stability for a longer period. While Kiwibank general manager said they simply wanted to provide people with value and a point of difference.

Both mortgage rates are the lowest we've ever seen from either of these banks, and it won't be long until the other big five banks also lower theirs.

Will we see mortgage rates drop any lower?

With OCR expected to tempt the negative zone, economists and experts are still suggesting that this may be the lowest we'll see the rates go to. However, the OCR is set to remain where it is for another 11 months, which is a long time, and things can change a lot in that space.

For all the latest mortgage rates, check out our rates table.

Keen for the best rate and some cash too?

We've teamed up with award winning mortgage experts, Squirrel.

With over 1,425 five star reviews on Shopper Approved, Squirrel has helped thousands of Kiwis just like you secure the best possible rate when refixing or refinancing. Squirrel often beats the advertised rates so it's worth getting them to review your mortgage.

shopper approved logofive star revews
R

Ryan

New Zealand

five star revews

The service I got from Squirrel was extremely efficient. They dealt with my loan so easily and achieved a result greater than what I was expecting.

J

Jo

New Zealand

five star revews

Highly recommend Squirrel to sort out a mortgage with the banks takes the hassle out of going to separate banks with so much information they do the hard yards for you - Baz was a superstar and helped me all the way to my new home.

Get a free mortgage review

All fields are required