As we move into winter, the Auckland property market continues to show encouraging signs of momentum, particularly across the mid-to-premium sectors where well-presented homes continue to attract strong enquiry and competitive engagement.
Yesterday, our Sales Team successfully placed two further properties under contract, reinforcing what we are continuing to see across the market: buyers remain active, but increasingly discerning. Rather than stepping away entirely, many purchasers are responding more cautiously to broader cost-of-living pressures. Rising fuel, insurance, rates, and household costs are all influencing decision-making and, in some areas, amplifying differences between regional and city-fringe markets. In this environment, presentation, pricing strategy, positioning, and trusted guidance remain critical in achieving strong outcomes.
Looking at the latest House Price Index (HPI) figures published by REINZ on 14 May, Auckland’s HPI sits 2.8% lower year-on-year. However, Auckland’s three-month median price of $1,022,000 is up 1.2%, suggesting stabilisation in values rather than continued decline.
At a national level, the figures also point toward a broadly stable market, although conditions continue to vary by region. The national median price eased slightly by 0.6% to $775,000, while, excluding Auckland, the median price remained unchanged year-on-year at $700,000. Eight of New Zealand’s sixteen regions recorded annual median price increases. Median Days to Sell also remained relatively steady throughout April, sitting at 42 days nationally.
Across Property Management, enquiry levels remain healthy throughout Auckland and Waiheke, although tenant behaviour has shifted noticeably. Prospective tenants are taking longer to make decisions, comparing value more carefully, and placing increasing emphasis on quality, compliance, warmth, and functionality within a home. In this environment, landlords who proactively maintain and present their properties well are continuing to achieve the strongest occupancy outcomes.
At an economic level, there is also growing international attention on New Zealand following continued changes to the Active Investor Plus (“AIP”) Visa settings. The Government’s revised framework has substantially simplified investor pathways into New Zealand, lowered investment thresholds, reduced residency requirements, and expanded investment flexibility. We are now seeing increased commentary around renewed offshore interest in premium New Zealand property, particularly from high-net-worth buyers seeking stability, lifestyle, and long-term investment opportunities.
At Goodwins, we continue to believe that periods of market change create the greatest opportunity for those prepared to lead with clarity, consistency, and professionalism.
Our focus remains firmly on delivering thoughtful advice, exceptional service, and high-quality outcomes for our clients across Sales, Residential Property Management, Commercial Property Management, and our growing UNIQ portfolio.
If you are considering your next move, or would like to explore opportunities within Goodwins, I welcome confidential enquiries to catherine@goodwins.co.nz.
