Home Loan Rate Report: Past the lows for this cycle?
- The RBNZ’s Official Cash Rate (OCR) was lowered to 2.25% at the last meeting of 2025 in November and is now well off the 5.50% peak
- Our view is the RBNZ will likely be on hold over 2026, but the risks are now tilted towards the next move in the OCR being higher, rather than lower
- Overall, the OCR and mortgage rates are lower than the ASB Economics team expected in reports from early 2025, due to the RBNZ cutting the OCR by more than what we initially expected
Contact us
Chris Tennent-Brown
ASB Wealth Senior Economist
Chris has worked as an economist for ASB and Commonwealth Bank of Australia in Sydney since 2005. His work has involved monitoring and forecasting trends in the New Zealand economy, with a focus on drawing implications for financial markets and investments. Chris is passionate about savings issues, and much of his current work is focussed on broadening peoples understanding of investments. Chris obtained a Bachelor of Commerce at Auckland University, majoring in Economics, and prior to joining ASB worked in the funds management industry for Bankers Trust and BT Funds Management. With over 20 years' experience in finance, Chris has also spent several years farming, and was a New Zealand representative cyclist. When not at work, Chris likes to travel, cycle, and spend time with his family and numerous pets.
- Email: Chris