Different Kinds of Loans Explained

Combined Shape

When financing things in all aspects of your life, like significant purchases, starting a business, or covering unexpected expenses, personal loans can be a great option.


Whether you’re looking to make a big purchase or need extra support, read on to learn more about the different types of loans and which type would be best for you.

Borrowing for a car

Car loans are used to finance a vehicle upfront while giving you a reasonable repayment timeframe. They are typically secured, meaning that the vehicle being purchased is used as collateral. This means that if the borrower defaults on the payments, the lender has the right to seize the vehicle.


Car loans typically have a fixed interest rate, a set repayment period, and regular monthly payments. The lending amount, interest rate, and repayment period will depend on various factors, including the borrower’s credit score, income, and the price of the vehicle being purchased. This type of loan can also be used if you have a damaged, uninsured car and need some money to cover repairs.

Emergency Loans

Emergency loans can help you deal with a costly problem to cover unexpected or urgent expenses. These loans typically have a quick application and approval process, so borrowers can get the funds they need quickly. Emergency loans can come in various forms, including personal, payday, and credit card advances.

However, it is essential to note that these types of loans often come with high-interest rates and fees that can quickly lead to a cycle of debt if not repaid promptly. Therefore, we recommend you only apply for one as a last resort.

Debt Consolidation

A debt consolidation loan allows you to pay off existing debts by combining them into a single loan. Often, this means a lower interest rate and potentially lower monthly payment.

Borrowing for a wedding

Planning and hosting a wedding can be highly stressful, with so much attention to detail required and so many different costs, from catering to buying a wedding dress. Wedding loans help families celebrate one of the most critical milestones in a person’s life without having to endure the mental stress of funding the event.

Borrowing for a holiday

When you suddenly have the time to travel but not the budget, a holiday loan comes in handy! Interest rates are typically fixed for holiday loans, making it a comprehensive way of financing your travel and holiday.

Unsecured Loans

An unsecured loan doesn’t require collateral and is approved based on creditworthiness. Collateral used for security often includes high-value assets, such as land or vehicles, so when you don’t need to secure a loan with a purchase like this, it’s an unsecured loan.
Unsecured loans are generally the best bet if you’re looking for fast cash.

Need a loan without the stress?

MoneyShop has assisted thousands of Kiwis with their finances since 1993! We have four branches in Auckland (Otahuhu, Manukau, Henderson, and Takanini) and one in Northland. We offer a variety of personal loans, between $200 and $20,000, available within as few as two hours. You can apply for a loan with us online here.

*MoneyShop loans are subject to responsible lending checks and standard approval criteria. Interest rates and fees vary based on your loan type and amount. For full details, please see our Privacy Policy, Terms & Conditions, and Costs of Borrowing page.

This information is general in nature and isn’t financial or professional advice. MoneyShop does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this content, and we recommend seeking personalised advice before making financial decisions

Our costs and terms

Loan amount

Borrow between $200 and $20,000, depending on your situation. Example: $3,000 over 78 weeks = $58.87/week.

Loan terms

Choose a term from 3 months to 3 years. Repay weekly. We’ll show your full schedule upfront.

Interest rate

The interest rates are 29.95% for loans with security or refinanced from existing loans, new unsecured loans are also 29.95%. The rate is fixed for the whole of the contract. Interest charges are calculated by multiplying the unpaid balance at the end of the day by a daily interest rate. The daily interest rate is calculated by dividing the annual interest rate by 365. Interest is charged when instalments fall due.

Default interest rate

MoneyShop doesn’t charge default interest. If your account falls behind, a $1 daily arrears fee may apply until things are back on track. Reversed payments incur a $5 fee, and missed‑payment contact may involve a letter fee (up to $50), a $5 phone fee, or an $80 + GST home‑visit fee. Any third‑party recovery costs are passed on at cost.

Establishment fees

One-time setup fee based on loan size:

Fee Cost
$200 to $499 $65.00
$500 to $800 $160.00
$800 to $5,000 for three years or less $300.00
$800 to $5,000 for three years or less $300.00
$5,000 to $15,000 for three years or less $310.00
Over $15,000 for more than three years $455.00

Some loan setup costs come from third parties — such as credit checks, PPSR searches, and security‑registration fees — and these are passed on at cost. Your account also has a daily administration charge of 55c while it’s open. We send statements every six months, and extra statements are free by email or $5 if printed. If you repay your loan early, an administration fee of $50 (averaged) may apply, along with any third‑party deregistration costs.

Rate type

Your rate stays the same for the whole loan. No surprises. No hidden fees.

Repayment frequency

Pay weekly. Example: $1,500 over 52 weeks = $44.83/week.

Example: Borrowing $3,000 over 78 weeks

  • Weekly repayment: $58.87
  • Total repayments: $4,592.86
  • Includes: Interest, $300 establishment fee, $0.55/day admin fee
  • Does not include: Any optional or default-related fees

 

This example assumes a fixed interest rate of 29.95% p.a., no missed payments, and no early repayment. Actual costs may vary depending on your loan amount, term, and repayment history.

Want to check your rate with our personal loan calculator?

Learn more about loan costs, interest rates, and fees on our Cost of Borrowing page.