WELCOME TO THE September 2025
p U b LISH er
Century 21 New Zealand Ltd
CON tr I b U t O r S
REINZ
Julius Capilitan
e DI t O r IAL e NQUI r I e S
Century 21 New Zealand
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ADV ert ISING e NQUI r I e S
Century 21 New Zealand
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By Julius Capilitan
m ANY re GIONS S ee pr IC e G r OW t H A m ID
SLOW er SAL e S
BY REINZ
New data from the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ) show a modest year-on-year dip in the national median price, although most regions saw median prices lifting year-on-year, and values remain broadly steady as listing numbers increase.
The median price for New Zealand decreased by $4,000 (-0.5%) year-on-year, to $761,000.
Excluding Auckland, the median price increased by 1.5% year-on-year to $690,000.
Thirteen out of the sixteen regions reported an increase in median prices compared to August 2024. Auckland’s median price increased by 1.3% year-on-year, to $964,000. The most significant year-on-year increases were recorded in Gisborne, up 11.3% from $620,000 to $690,000, Southland, up 8.9% from $427,000 to $465,000, and in the West Coast, up 7.8% from $357,000 to $385,000.
“Across New Zealand, confidence in the property market is tempered with caution,” says REINZ Chief Executive Lizzy Ryley. “While many expected the recent OCR change to encourage more activity, the history of REINZ data suggests that we may be cautiously optimistic that we will see an increase in activity in the market in the coming months. At this stage, both buyers and sellers appear to be taking a
measured approach as they watch how the market unfolds, particularly as we near spring.”
Sales across the country stalled in August, with sales declining year-on-year and month-on-month for both New Zealand (down 3.7% and 11.1% respectively), to 5,866 sales, and New Zealand, excluding Auckland (down 1.3% and 11.3% respectively), to 4,052 sales.
Only six regions reported an increase in sales compared to August last year. The most notable increases were recorded in the Waikato, up 13.2% to 688 sales, Gisborne, up 11.1% to 40 sales and Southland, up 8.1% to 133 sales.
“August has highlighted some interesting trends across the country,” says Ryley. “While sales have eased in parts of the market, most regions are still seeing increases in median prices. Properties are taking different lengths of time to sell depending on the area, which shows that while the market is active, buyers are considering their options carefully.”
There was an influx of new listings recorded around the country, with New Zealand up 9.0% year-on-year to 8,769. New Zealand, excluding Auckland, also recorded an increase, up 6.5% year-on-year to 5,481. Inventory levels reached 30,000 properties on the market across New Zealand, representing a 1.4% year-on-year increase.
“Some local agents have observed that in certain markets, investors seem less active, and some are opting to sell, in anticipation of the typical end-of-winter to early-spring shift in the property market.”
New Zealand’s median days to sell declined by two days compared to August 2024, reaching 48 days. Excluding Auckland, the days to sell remained the same year-on-year, at 49 days. The highest increase in days to sell was on the West Coast, up 19 days from 38 to 57 days. The largest decrease in days to sell was recorded in Nelson and Marlborough, both down 11 days to 35 and 41 median days to sell, respectively.
Image: Troy Mortier on Unsplash
ANNUAL MEDIAN PRICE CHANGES
$761,000
August saw 778 auction sales nationally, which was 13.3% of all sales. For New Zealand, excluding Auckland, there were 412 auction sales, which were 10.2% of all sales. Gisborne recorded the highest percentage of auction sales, with 42.5% of all sales done by auction (17 auctions). The highest numbers of properties sold by auction were held in Auckland at 366 auction sales (20.2% of all sales) and Canterbury, at 199 auction sales (19.4% of all sales).
“While we’re seeing more new listings coming onto the market, sales aren’t keeping pace, which is reflected in the median days to sell in some regions. Across New Zealand, it now takes around 48
days to sell a property, slightly faster than this time last year, but in some regions, such as the West Coast, properties are staying on the market much longer,” concludes Ryley.
The House Price Index (HPI) for New Zealand is at 3,577, showing a year-on-year increase of 0.4% and an increase of 0.3% compared to last month. Over the past five years, the average annual growth rate of New Zealand’s HPI has been 3.2%.
Click here to read the full report
Source: REINZ Monthly Property Report 15 September 2025.
MOVE OF THE CENTURY
Spring is the season of new chapters. Whether you're moving on or moving in we're here to help.
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S IGNS OF A t HAW IN t H e HOUSING m A r K et
BY JULIUS CAPILITAN , C21 FINANCIAL
In our last update, we spoke about the relief from falling interest rates and how the Official Cash Rate (OCR) was cut to 3%. This month, we’re beginning to see how those changes are flowing through to households and the housing market. It’s not a sudden turnaround, but there are early signs that the toughest period may be behind us.
THE ECONOMY: TOUGH bUT IMPROVING
The economy is still carrying the weight of the past two years. Households have felt the pinch from higher living costs, slower job growth, and limited wage gains. This has kept consumer confidence muted and left many people hesitant to make big financial decisions.
But the path ahead looks brighter. Inflation pressures are easing, and the Reserve Bank has shifted from tightening to supporting growth. More policy support is expected before the end of the year. This means we could see the economy pick up gradually, easing some of the pressure households have been feeling.
HOUSING: A bUYER’S MARKET
House prices have steadied after years of decline. In many regions, values have even ticked slightly higher compared to last year. That’s a strong signal the market has found its floor.
The bigger story is supply. There are more homes on the market now than we’ve seen in a decade, giving buyers plenty of choice. Sales activity,
however, remains subdued. Many buyers and sellers are in “wait and see” mode, watching the economy and market closely before making a move.
For buyers willing to act, this creates a rare moment of opportunity: stabilised prices, high inventory, and fewer competing bidders. In short, it’s a buyer’s market - for now.
CONFIDENCE WILL UNLOCK THE MARKET
So why isn’t activity stronger?
The missing piece is confidence. Buyers want reassurance the economy is on firmer ground, and sellers want certainty they aren’t selling at the bottom. Confidence takes time to rebuild, but it can also return quickly once people start seeing positive signs stack up.
Julius says: “Right now, buyers hold more of the cards. There’s more choice, less competition, and the chance to secure a home at a fair price. Once confidence returns, those advantages won’t last. The best results often go to those who act early, with the right strategy in place.”
LOOKING AHEAD
Spring traditionally brings more life to the housing market, with longer days and a lift in buyer interest. Combine that seasonal trend with falling rates and easing inflation, and conditions are slowly tilting in buyers’ favour.
Julius says: “The market won’t roar back overnight, but we’re starting to see green shoots. With the right advice, you can take advantage of today’s unique conditions and set yourself up well for the years ahead.”
For homeowners, stability is welcome after a period of sharp price declines. For prospective buyers, the opportunity is clear: the stars are aligning in a way we haven’t seen for years. Acting with informed confidence now could be your decision of the century.
t H e S pr ING
m AIN te NANC e
GUID e FO r e V erY LANDLO r D
SPRING IS THE SEASON TO GET AHEAD
As winter winds down and spring approaches, now is the perfect time for landlords to get ahead of seasonal maintenance. A well-maintained property not only protects your investment but also improves tenant satisfaction, reduces the risk of unexpected repairs, and helps maintain long-term rental income.
Whether you self-manage or work with a property manager, this guide covers the must-do tasks every landlord should consider in the lead-up to spring.
CHECK ROOFS, GUTTERS AND DRAINAGE
Winter often leaves behind clogged gutters and roof debris. With heavier rainfall common in many parts of New Zealand during spring, ensuring your property’s drainage system is clear and functioning properly is critical.
Inspect for cracked tiles, rusted gutters, and blocked downpipes. If left unchecked, these issues can lead to leaks or costly water damage.
Tip: Book a professional roof and gutter clean before the first
major spring rainfall to avoid last-minute callouts and prevent overflow issues.
SERVICE HEATING AND COOLING SYSTEMS
With warmer days just around the corner, now is the ideal time to service air conditioning units or split systems. Clean filters, check performance, and ensure everything is running efficiently.
Not only does this extend the lifespan of the unit, it also ensures your tenants are not left without cooling when they need it most.
Tip: Keep records of all servicing. It is helpful for warranty claims and shows tenants that the property is being cared for proactively.
INSPECT OUTDOOR AREAS AND GARDENS
Spring is the season when outdoor spaces start getting used again. Check fences, gates, decks, and patios for damage or wear. Remove any debris, sweep pathways, and trim overgrown hedges.
A neat outdoor space adds value to the property and gives tenants more reas on to stay long term.
Tip: Consider adding low-maintenance native plants or mulch to improve visual appeal and reduce upkeep.
TEST SMOKE ALARMS AND SAFETY COMPLIANCE
Spring is a timely reminder to double-check that your property meets all state safety regulations. That includes working smoke alarms, secure locks, and adequate lighting.
New Zealand now require annual smoke alarm checks by a qualified technician. If this has not been scheduled yet, make it a priority this month.
Tip: Tenants appreciate visible commitment to safety. Include a short message in your next inspection report or email to reassure them these checks are being done.
ADDRESS MINOR REPAIRS bEFORE THEY ESCALATE
That sticky sliding door, flickering light, or cracked tile might seem minor now, but small issues often grow into bigger problems if left unattended. Use the change in season as a prompt to fix lingering maintenance items before they become tenant complaints or emergen cy repairs.
Tip: Create a simple seasonal checklist or ask your property manager to include a spring maintenance round-up in their routine inspection.
KEEP COMMUNICATION OPEN
Spring maintenance is a great opportunity to touch base with your tenants. A quick email or note letting them know what is being scheduled or asking if they have noticed anything needing attention can go a long way.
This kind of proactive communication strengthens the landlord-tenant relationship and can help you stay ahead of issues.
A Season of Renewal for Your Investment
Spring is all about fresh starts, and your rental property is no exception. By staying on top of seasonal maintenance, you will protect your asset, support tenant satisfaction, and avoid unnecessary costs down the track.
Whether you are a seasoned investor or managing your first rental, a little preparation this month can go a long way in setting up a smoother, more profitable season ahead.
e N tertAINING
At HO me t HIS S pr ING: OU t DOO r
S pAC e S t HAt
WO r K HA r D er
IT’S
TIME TO TAKE IT OUTSIDE
Spring is the season for reconnecting with friends, family, and your outdoor space. After a winter of staying in, warmer weather and longer evenings make this the perfect time to refresh your backyard, balcony, or courtyard for spring entertaining.
You do not need a full makeover to make it work. With a few thoughtful updates, your outdoor space can become the heart of your home this season.
Tip: Sta rt with what you already have and build around it.
Rearranging furniture or adding fresh cushions can make a big difference before you even consider new purchases.
START WITH A PURPOSE
Think about how you want to use your outdoor area. Do you want to host long lunches? Relax in the sun? Create a play space for kids? The best outdoor spaces are designed with intention.
Once you define your purpose, every design choice becomes easier, from furniture layout to lighting and styling.
Tip: Choose one clear function to anchor the space, then style around it. A central table for dining or a fire pit for gathering can set the tone and avoid clutter.
ADD COMFORT THROUGH LAYERS
Outdoor spaces should feel just as welcoming as the inside of your home. Soft furnishings like outdoor rugs, cushions, throws, and bench pads add comfort and personality.
Look for weather-resistant materials that can stay outside without damage, and choose tones that reflect the season such as fresh greens, earthy neutrals, or soft pastels.
Tip: Stick to two or three colour tones to create a cohesive look and avoid the space feeling chaotic or mismatched.
LIGHTING SETS THE MOOD
Once the sun goes down, lighting becomes the key to ambience. String lights, lanterns, or
Image: Larissa Cohen on Unsplash
Image: Larissa Cohen on Unsplash
solar-powered garden lights are cost-effective ways to make your space glow.
Tip: Use multiple light sources at different heights. Mix table lanterns, wall-mounted options, and overhead festoon lights to create warmth and dimension.
KEEP IT GREEN AND LOW-MAINTENANCE
Adding potted plants, herbs, or vertical gardens brings life to any outdoor area. Choose native or hardy plants that thrive in your climate to keep upkeep low.
Even a small balcony can benefit from a touch of green, and well-placed greenery can also provide privacy or frame your entertaining zones.
Tip: Use pots with wheels or lightweight planters so you can rearrange your greenery easily for seasonal shade o r layout changes.
MAKE ENTERTAINING EASY
A simple outdoor setup can make hosting stress-free.
This might include:
• A fold-out drinks trolley or serving bench
• A portable speaker for background music
• A bin nearby to make clean-up easy
• Outdoor-safe dishware and serving pieces
You do not need a big space or a big budget, just thoughtful touches that make guests feel welcome.
Tip: Keep a small outdoor hosting kit packed with napkins, citronella candles, and spare glassware so you're always ready for last-minute gatherings.
LET YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE SHINE THIS SPRING
Spring entertaining is about ease, warmth, and connection. Whether you're hosting a birthday lunch, Sunday barbecue, or sunset drinks,
your outdoor space should work for you, not the other way around.
With a few smart updates, you can create a space that invites people in and keeps them lingering long after the sun goes down.
Tip: Walk through your space as if you were a guest. This helps you identify small changes that can enhance flow, comfort, and atmosphere.
A Little Thought Goes a Long Way
You don’t need to start from scratch to create a space that feels fresh, functional, and welcoming.
With a few simple upgrades and a clear sense of how you want to entertain, your outdoor area can become one of your favourite places to spend time this spring.
Whether you are hosting a group or just enjoying a quiet morning coffee, the best outdoor spaces are the ones that reflect how you live. Start small, think smart, and enjoy the sea son ah ead.
Image: Luis Redondo on Unsplash
