First Credit Union – Loan Review
First Credit Union offers member-owned personal loans in New Zealand with competitive rates and ethical lending values.
Applying does not commit you to any agreement.
First Credit Union
First Credit Union is a member-owned financial cooperative based in Hamilton, New Zealand. Personal loans from $500 to $30,000 with terms from 6 months to 5 years. Rates start from 12.95% p.a. As a credit union, all profits are returned to members through better rates, lower fees and community support.
Applications can be made online or in-branch. First Credit Union has branches in Hamilton, Auckland and Christchurch. Membership is open to all New Zealanders and requires a small share deposit. Approval typically takes 1-3 business days.
First Credit Union charges no monthly account fees on personal loans and no early repayment penalties. They are a member of the New Zealand Association of Credit Unions (NZACU).
✓ Pros
- Member-owned – profits returned to members
- No monthly account fees
- No early repayment fees
- NZACU member – regulated and trusted
✗ Cons
- Must become a member
- Limited branch network
- Maximum $30,000
Loan Example
Example: $5,000 over 24 months at 12.95% p.a. = approx. $238/month.
Loan Requirements
- ✓ NZ citizen or permanent resident
- ✓ 18 years or older
- ✓ Must join First Credit Union as a member
- ✓ Regular income
- ✓ Valid NZ ID
Loan Features
- Member-owned cooperative
- $500 to $30,000
- Individual credit assessment
- Competitive rates
- Ethical lending values
Frequently Asked Questions
1-3 business days after submitting your application.
The minimum amount at First Credit Union is $500.
Yes, First Credit Union offers an online application process. Visit their website to apply.