Business loans

When it comes to business loans, we do more than just secure funding — we ensure the loan structure aligns with your business’s cash flow and long-term goals. Whether you're acquiring your first business, expanding an existing one, purchasing a new venture, or adding new services or products, we can help you secure the right loan with the right terms.

Our goal is not only to get you the funding you need, but also to help you manage it effectively so you can pay it off sooner and strengthen your balance sheet.

Use our loan calculator

Use our calculator to get an idea of what your payments could be based on your deposit.

Let us assist you

What type of business loan situation are you looking for?

Funding for expansion

For business growth funding, we’re here to help. We understand the challenges of scaling a business, so we take the financial complexity off your plate. Working collaboratively with you and your advisors, we structure tailored solutions that align with your goals, support sustainable growth, and strengthen your financial position.

Starting a new business or acquiring another

For starting or acquiring a business, we simplify the funding process. By working with you, your accountant, and your solicitor, we help you secure tailored, long-term funding with the right structure and terms to ensure your success.

Smart Debt Management & Loan Structuring

At Lemon Tree Finance, we help you strategically manage your loans. We can consolidate debts, restructure loans to improve cash flow, and reduce interest costs with smarter repayment strategies. We tailor each solution to your unique situation, giving you the clarity and control you need to achieve financial freedom. Let us help your debt work smarter—not harder.

How we work with you.

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We make it simple and transparent.

From the very first conversation, our focus is on keeping things simple, informative, and transparent.
We take pride in clear, open communication — ensuring you're always informed about what’s happening, why it’s happening, and what to expect next.

We tailor solutions to your business goals.

Every business is unique — and so are its financial needs.
We take the time to understand your goals and what matters most to you, so we can deliver tailored solutions that not only meet your current objectives but also support your long-term success.

Not just borrowing, but borrowing smart.

A smart loan structure doesn’t just support business growth — it also plays a key role in strengthening your balance sheet and improving financial resilience.
That’s our focus: not just securing funding, but providing solutions with intelligent, well-thought-out structuring tailored to your specific needs.

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Providing the funding solutions to help you grow.

Ongoing financial support can be the difference between an average year and a truly outstanding financial performance. That’s why we partner with you on a regular basis to understand your evolving business needs and ensure smart funding solutions are ready when you need them.

We also collaborate closely with your accountant and solicitor to ensure the funding we arrange is not only fit for purpose but also structured in a way that supports legal compliance and tax efficiency.

This approach helps you maximise your returns, reduce financial stress, and strengthen your balance sheet for long-term success.

Frequently asked questions for busiess loans.

Can I pay off my business loan early?

Early repayment of business loans is typically allowed, but conditions may apply. Most loans offer the flexibility to repay early to reduce interest and clear debt faster. However, some lenders may charge a break fee or early exit penalty, especially for fixed-term or fixed-rate loans. The specific fees and terms depend on the loan type and the lender. It is always important to review your loan contract for details on early repayment. We can help you there.

Is my business eligible for a loan?

Lenders typically focus on these five areas:

  1. Business Age & Track Record: Most lenders prefer at least 1-2 years of trading history. Start-ups can get funding, but the options are more limited and often have higher costs.
  2. Financial Health: Lenders require up-to-date financial statements and GST returns. Positive cash flow and manageable debt significantly improve your chances of approval.
  3. Business Structure & Industry: All business structures (sole traders, companies, trusts) are eligible, but some industries may face more scrutiny.
  4. Security & Collateral: Offering assets like property or equipment as security can help with approval. Unsecured loans are available but often have higher interest rates and lower limits.
  5. Credit History: A clean business and personal credit history is important. Some lenders may overlook minor credit issues if your cash flow is strong.

We will review your unique business situation and financials, match you with lenders who specialise in your industry and loan type and help you package your application to maximize your chances of approval.

Can you help me choose the right type of loan for my business?

LemonTree Finance matches you with the right loan and lender by looking at five key areas:

1. Loan Purpose:
  • Buy a business: Term Loan / Franchise Loan
  • Buy commercial property: Commercial Property Loan
  • Equipment or vehicles: Asset or Equipment Finance
  • Cover cash flow gaps: Working Capital Loan / Overdraft
  • Unpaid invoices: Invoice Finance
  • Develop or build: Development/Construction Loan
2. Urgency:
  • 1-3 days: Non-bank working capital or asset finance
  • 2-3+ weeks: Term loan via a bank
3. Business Establishment:
  • Start-up: Limited bank options, more flexible lenders
  • 2+ years: Full suite of options available
4. Financial Position:
  • Lenders check for up-to-date financials, GST returns, and any available assets for security.
5. Structure or Flexibility:
  • Predictable repayments: Fixed Term Loan
  • Draw and repay anytime: Overdraft or Revolving Credit
  • Progress payments: Development or Construction Loan
  • Repay based on invoice flow: Invoice Finance

The right loan is a strategic decision, not just about getting approved.

What types of business loans are available in New Zealand?
Term Loans
  • A lump-sum loan repaid over a fixed term (1-5+ years).
  • Used for expansion, buying equipment, or a business.
Commercial Property Loans
  • Lending secured against commercial buildings.
  • Used for buying offices, warehouses, or shops.
Asset & Equipment Finance
  • Finance for vehicles, machinery, tech, or tools.
  • Often a lease or hire purchase.
Business Line of Credit / Overdraft
  • Revolving credit to manage cash flow.
  • Only pay interest on what you use.
Development & Construction Loans
  • Staged lending for commercial builds or property development.
  • Structured as progressive drawdowns.
Franchise & Business Purchase Loans
  • Finance to acquire or buy into a business or franchise.
  • Often includes working capital and equipment.
Lender Types
  • Main banks (strict but cheap)
  • Non-bank lenders (flexible, faster, slightly higher rates)
  • Specialist business lenders & private funders
How long does the process take for a Business loan in New Zealand?

The timeline for business finance varies, but typically involves these steps:

  1. Preparation (1-5 days): You provide financial documents, business plans, and other required information.
  2. Assessment (3-5 days): We review your information and determine the best strategy and funding options.
  3. Submission (1-2 days): We submit the tailored application to suitable lenders.
  4. Conditional Approval (5-10 days): Lenders review the application and may request further clarification.
  5. Final Approval (3-7 days): Once all conditions are met, the lender issues full approval.
  6. Settlement (6-10 days before settlement): Loan documents are finalized and funds are disbursed.

The process can be influenced by the complexity of your deal and how quickly documentation is provided. We are committed to keeping the process moving as fast as possible.

Who we work with

We're partnered with some of New Zealand's most renowned, trusted and reputable lenders.

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Unlocking your business potential

We'll cut through the complexity, breaking it down into clear, easy-to-understand steps. Our transparent communication ensures you always know where things stand—no surprises, no jargon, just results that help you achieve your homeownership goals.

Get in touch with us today and let's make your property dreams a reality.

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