NZ GST on New Builds Calculator
New residential builds in NZ typically include 15% GST in the advertised price. This calculator shows the GST-inclusive price, GST-exclusive price, and the GST component — useful when comparing new builds with existing homes.
How this calculation works
GST-inclusive price = GST-exclusive price × (1 + GST rate). For the standard 15% rate, this means the GST component is 15/115 (about 13.04%) of the inclusive price. New residential builds sold by GST-registered developers include GST in the advertised price. Existing residential homes are generally GST-exempt.
Sources
- IRD — GST on land transactions: ird.govt.nz/gst
- GST rate: 15% (effective 1 October 2010)
- Zero-rating rules for land transactions between GST-registered parties
When to use this
- — Understanding how much of the purchase price is GST on a new build
- — Comparing new build prices (GST-inclusive) with existing homes (GST-exempt)
- — Checking a developer's pricing breakdown
Important limitations
- — Zero-rating typically only applies between GST-registered parties — not to most first-home purchases
- — Existing residential homes sold by non-registered sellers are GST-exempt (different from zero-rated)
- — Some costs within a new build contract may have different GST treatment
Common questions
Do I pay GST on an existing home?
Generally no. Sales of existing residential homes by private (non-GST-registered) sellers are GST-exempt. You pay the price you agree — there's no GST to add or claim.
Does the First Home Grant include GST?
The First Home Grant is paid to you, not the developer. The advertised new-build price already includes GST. The grant contributes to your deposit/settlement funds — GST treatment doesn't change the grant amount.
Can I claim the GST back?
Not as a homeowner buying a home to live in. GST is only recoverable if you're GST-registered and buying for a taxable activity (e.g., developing or trading).
Next step
Turn these numbers into a plan.
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Last reviewed: 2026-07-23. Information only — not financial advice. Use these estimates to prepare better questions before speaking with a lender, lawyer, or regulated adviser.