A leading bank executive says people using their parents to get a foot on the property ladder is the norm throughout the country.
Chief executive of the Co-operative Bank Bruce McLachlan said it was most acute in Auckland, where prices have risen 18 percent in the last year.
He said every first time home buyer approaching the bank intend to make use of Kiwisaver and family support to meet the shortfall.
"It's a national issue, but it's compounded in Auckland."
He said it was a financial strain on many parents, who themselves may still hold mortgages.