Best 6 Month Term Deposit Rates in New Zealand
Compare 6 month term deposit (fixed deposit) rates from the major NZ banks we track, ranked highest first. Updated daily — a popular term for short-term savings goals.
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Updated: 14 Aug 2026, 06:13 AM
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6 Month Term Deposit Rates
| Bank Details | 6 months ↕ |
|---|---|
| | 3.55% |
| | 3.55% |
| | 3.55% |
| | 3.50% |
| | ⭐ 3.60% Top Rate |
| | 3.65% |
| | 3.45% |
| | 3.25% |
| | 3.55% |
| | 3.55% |
| | ⭐ 3.60% Top Rate |
| | 3.50% |
| | 🏆 3.65% Best Rate |
| | 3.45% |
| | 3.45% |
| | 3.45% |
Last updated: August 14, 2026 at 06:13 AM
Highest 6-month term deposit rate in NZ
Rates last updated:
- As of 14 August 2026, the highest 6-month term deposit rate in NZ is 3.65%, offered by Bank of China and Rabobank.
6 Month Term Deposits: Short Commitment, Competitive Returns
The 6 month term deposit is one of New Zealand's most popular terms — long enough to earn a competitive fixed rate, short enough that your money isn't tied up for years. As of August 2026, 6-month rates from the banks we track range from 3.25% to 3.65%.
When a 6 month term makes sense
A 6-month deposit suits money you'll want back within the year — a near-term purchase, a buffer between investments, or savings you want to keep relatively flexible while still beating an everyday savings account. Because the term is short, you can re-price your money sooner if rates are rising.
6 month vs 12 month rates
Whether 6-month rates beat 12-month rates depends on the rate cycle. When rates are expected to fall, banks often pay more for longer terms; when rates are rising, shorter terms can be more attractive. Compare both, and see the full short-term range before deciding.
Use our term deposit calculator to estimate exactly what a 6-month deposit would earn at today's rates.
6 Month Term Deposit FAQs
Which bank has the best 6-month term deposit rate?
The leading 6-month rate moves between banks over time. The table above shows current 6-month term deposit (fixed deposit) rates across major New Zealand banks, ranked so you can spot the best available rate, then confirm it with the bank.
What is a 6-month term deposit typically used for?
A 6-month term is a popular middle ground — long enough to earn a competitive fixed rate, short enough that money isn't locked away for years. It's commonly used for a specific savings goal or money not needed until around then. Whether it fits your situation depends on your own circumstances.
What happens at the end of a 6-month term deposit?
At maturity you can withdraw the funds, reinvest at the current rate, or roll over the principal and take the interest. Banks differ on automatic rollover and grace periods, so set your instructions before maturity.
Not financial advice: this page provides factual information only. It lists publicly published term deposit rates ranked by interest rate, and does not take into account your financial situation, goals or risk tolerance. Rates are collected once a day and may not match a bank's current offer — confirm the rate, minimum deposit, fees and break conditions directly with the bank before investing. Deposits with a licensed deposit taker are covered by the Depositor Compensation Scheme up to $100,000 per depositor, per institution; amounts above that are not. For advice about your own circumstances, speak to a licensed financial advice provider.