Stay floating and wait for RBNZ decision

Mortgage Rates

Westpac Weekly Commentary says fixing before the Reserve Bank's decision is known is of little value, given the likely market response to various scenarios.

It says an OCR cut would probably generate a sharp fall in floating rates and a fall in fixed rates, while an on-hold decision could leave fixed rates unchanged.

"If the Reserve Bank does cut, there may be a window of opportunity to lock in favourable fixed rates, given that Christchurch reconstruction will eventually put upward pressure on the OCR," Westpac says.

BNZ Weekly Overview economist Tony Alexander also recommends borrowers stay floating and says those planning to fix should hold off.

"There is no benefit to fixing now apart from certainty and given the rally in wholesale borrowing costs, there is a good chance fixed rates will be cut again very soon following a round of cuts this week concentrated on the short terms."

Alexander says he could personally see himself continuing to float for a long time - probably into next year.

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