Reforms to foreign buyers ban – What’s the story?
06.
The art of cosymaxxing
11.
35. Properties for sale 05.
Tony Alexander: Borrowers, this is almost as good as it gets
Resene: 50 shades of beige 14.
26.
What's happening in the market, local area statistics
New Zealand’s coalition government is currently reconsidering Labour’s 2018 extensive ban on foreign residential property investment.
It was a pivotal move designed to address past housing affordability concerns, but home ownership continued to be a pipe dream for too many Kiwis. The proposed Overseas Investment Amendment Bill 2025 seeks to attract foreign capital once again and revitalise the struggling construction sector. Critics caution that house prices could skyrocket again, especially in hot housing markets like Auckland and Queenstown. But the new policies aim to provide a balanced approach through surcharges, quotas, and careful regulation to avoid rampant speculation.
While our western counterparts allow some foreign ownership, New Zealand’s previous clampdown intended to protect local buyers did not fully solve the affordability issues. The government is now poised to permit foreign purchases under amended conditions, hoping to stimulate the economy without having history repeat.
Ultimately, the goal is a stable, fair housing market welcoming back foreign buyers (with conditions).
Wayne Maguire AREINZ CEO Maguires One Team
Written by Wayne Maguire, CEO Maguire & Associates
After the 2023 elections the coalition partners discussed the easing of the Labour government’s 2018 restrictions on foreign property investment.
Historically the soaring cost of home ownership had been a significant campaign issue and there was a push for change to alleviate the pressure on homebuying Kiwis. In 2025 we are now on the brink of some proposed key changes.
The recent intentions are already triggering heated debate. Promoted as a move that will increase investment, economic growth, and boost the struggling construction sector, critics caution that house prices could again skyrocket, alienating first-home buyers, and establishing real estate as the easy target for global investors.
The Overseas Investment Amendment Bill 2025 introduces some major reforms to the Overseas Investment Act 2005. The devil is in the detail of course. Balance is needed to ensure it’s a stable environment once the proposed changes kick in. With surcharges, taxes, quotas, raised thresholds and careful management, triggering runaway speculation is minimised. We want to be sure that the increase in foreign capital in the property sector is balanced and fair for all stakeholders.
Other western nations all allow varying degrees of foreign property ownership, so we disadvantage ourselves if we ring fence too rigidly. This new relaxation of the rules implicitly signals that we welcome global investors (with the requisite checks and balances) for the bigger picture of opportunities for international partnership and economic growth.
Folks are justifiably wary of past mistakes coming back to haunt us. We can acknowledge that the 2018 ban was borne out of real concerns when from 2013 and 2018, house prices surged by over 50%. The finger was pointed at foreign buyers for the former hot market where inflated sale prices and outbidding locals at auction were well documented.
The comprehensive ban in 2018 on overseas buyers was designed to prevent ordinary Kiwis being priced out of the market. With soaring house prices and widespread concern over property speculation from cashed-up overseas investors the clampdown was, in principle, well-intentioned. Many saw the Overseas Investment Amendment Act as delivering a fairer, more accessible housing market for locals. Nevertheless, affordability for many continued to remain stubbornly unattainable.
Today, as the coalition government weighs up a major policy reversal, foreign nationals are poised to once again purchase residential property here – albeit with conditions. An announcement is expected before the end of this year.
Freeing the reins on foreign investment could bring a consequential injection of much-needed capital into our economy. There’s talk of alleviating the strain on the beleaguered construction sector, so this new move is projected to increase activity. For us in real estate we also anticipate the dial to move. Increased government revenue would translate to more funding for infrastructure, public services, and to incentivise domestic construction.
Policies that isolate us from the rest of the world aren’t a good look and similarly, we need to balance that with the needs of New Zealanders.
With the proposed loosening of restrictions people are considering the prospect of history repeating. Buyers struggling to save for a deposit and facing the competition for stock with a new influx of foreign buyers are possibly feeling a little uncertain. However, it’s different this time around.
Will allowing foreign buyers back into the market exacerbate some prevailing disparities in centres like Auckland and Queenstown? These are markets out of reach for many but mighty attractive for international investors.
The end goal is to have a stable, fair, and accessible housing market for Kiwis along with a responsibility to participate as a global player. In essence, the coming changes to foreign ownership mean a widening of the lanes rather than a new road map. As real estate professionals we are ready to tackle the response when the changes are instigated.
Source: yourhomeandgarden.co.nz, Author: Shelley Tustin
Survive and thrive this winter with these cosymaxxing rituals.
When it’s bitterly cold outside, and you’ve gone to work and come home in the dark, there’s nothing better than snuggling up in your PJs, maybe lighting a candle and burrowing under a fluffy blanket. These little self-soothing rituals now have a name: cosymaxxing, or cosy maximalism.
It’s similar to the Danish concept of hygge, but while hygge is all about connection – creating a comforting and convivial atmosphere for spending time with loved ones – cosymaxxing experiences are more self-focused, designed as an antidote to stress, fatigue and the general malaise of winter.
It’s about finding the activities that make you feel cosy and relaxed, like reading in bed, a pot of tea in a patch of sunshine, treating yourself to a solo dinner by candlelight, or watching movies in a nest of blankets. Of course, getting that cosy feeling begins with a cosy environment.
Read on for tips on getting your place feeling homely, snug and ready for relaxation.
Cosymaxxing with colour
While summer is for wide, open windows and colours that remind us of beach days or gardens in bloom, winter demands a warmer, swaddling palette of hues.
Interior designer Charlotte Minty says, “The idea that the application of warm hues – located on the red, orange and yellow spectrum –inherently makes a room feel cosy still holds. But also consider other snug and inviting colours such as terracotta and deep jewel tones, which are also adept at capturing warmth and comfort. Another option is rich chocolate brown (like Pantone’s 2025 Colour of the Year), which is proving to be a highly popular choice this year.”
For maximum cosyness (or cosymaxximum, if you will), take your chosen hue over all four walls and across the ceiling to feel embraced by colour. These deep and moody hues can also be used as accent colours in cushions and throws that can be switched out in spring when the weather thaws.
If you prefer neutrals, you can still use colour to turn a room into a warm hug. The key is to lean into warmer colours – a softer take on Scandinavian style, defrosted to include toasty shades of cream, mushroom grey, butter caramel and pinkish taupe.
Our favourite cosy paint colours
• Omaha by Dulux
• Majolica by Porter’s Paint
• Resene Salted Caramel
• Resene Trek
• Resene Athena
Light therapy
Most of us suffer a bit from the seasonal sulks, with winter’s short days and limited sunlight a major culprit. Prescribe yourself a shot of vitamin D by maximising your exposure to natural light as much as possible; open curtains wide, move your workspace to the most sunlit room in the house, and set up a sun-soaked spot in the garden for sitting with a cup of tea.
After dark, embrace the dimness, using selective lighting to create an inviting glow. Rule number one is to always opt for warm, yellow-toned light. Ideally, forgo overhead lights in favour of lamps, wall sconces or candles, which cast small pools of warm light, like tropical islands.
Interior designer Terry Walsh says there are two ways to nail cosymaxxing with lighting – “Using table or floor lamps with warm light on their own is paramount to creating a cosy aesthetic. Or the second choice would be low-glare recessed downlights on a dimmer switch, used in conjunction with floor or table lamps.”
From left: Williams trumpet floor lamp, $249, from Early Settler; Ulla table lamp, $409, from Freedom; Elegant up-down wall light, $144.95, from Misterlamp; Porto metal floor lamp, $99.99, from Mocka; Amiri portable rechargeable lamp, $24, from Kmart.
Between the closed windows and the whiff of wet clothes (or dog), winter homes can be less than fresh, making home fragrances welcome. But your choice of a scented candle or diffuser can also go a long way towards creating a sense of cosiness. Snuggly scents for winter might include wafts of smoke, amber, tobacco, and cedarwood spiked with sweetness and spice. Or, if your goal is to smell your way to relaxation, look for lavender, chamomile or bergamot.
A lot of the most comforting candle scents come straight from the kitchen: cinnamon, vanilla and woody herbs. Go straight to the source by baking, if you’re so inclined, or fragrance your home with a simmer pot – combine citrus fruits and spices, such as cinnamon and cloves, in a pot of water and let it simmer for a few hours.
Or create a pomander by stuffing an orange with cloves; these can form a gorgeous display and gently scent the room as the fruit dries.
If there’s one sense that sums up “cosy”, it’s texture – the silkiness of a possum wool throw, the billowing softness of a thick duvet, or a pair of fluffy socks can make you feel not only snug, but nurtured.
“Layering is everything when it comes to crafting a space that feels warm and inviting,” says interior designer Vanessa Webb of Dress My Nest. The bedroom can be the ultimate rest and recharge space.
“A beautifully upholstered headboard brings an instant feeling of comfort and grounding. From there, I layer tactile fabrics: crisp linen sheets, a wool throw, a velvet cushion or two.
Mixing textures – such as boucle, velvet and soft knits – adds dimension without overwhelming the space,” says Vanessa.
Sink into that snuggly feeling by treating yourself to luxe loungewear – cashmere socks or an oversized cardigan. Adding a weighted blanket or a heated throw turns your sofa or bed nest into a warm hug.
An effectively heated home is essential for cosymaxxing, but if you want your heating with a huge side of atmosphere, a wood-burning fire is the ultimate heat source.
The faint tang of smoke, the quiet crackle of logs and the gentle glow of firelight turn chilly winter nights into a hibernating joy. Maximise the cosy effect by keeping the glass on your wood burner clean and clear; artfully stack firewood, or take a leaf out of the stylist’s cosy playbook and add a basket of pine cones.
If you don’t have a fireplace, you can still create a similarly cosymaxxing effect.
Electric fireplaces work like portable heaters, but with flame effects. Or group a cluster of different-sized candles on a non-flammable surface.
Recipe by Claire Aldous, Photography by Josh Griggs, Source: dish.co.nz
Roasting the pumpkin, onion and apple brings out their natural sweetness, which pairs perfectly with the warmth of the curry powder and maple syrup.
SERVES: 4-6
INGREDIENTS
• 2 tablespoons each extra virgin olive oil and maple syrup
• 2 teaspoons curry powder (use medium or hot)
• 3 cloves garlic, crushed
• 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
• sea salt and ground pepper
• 1.2-kilogram crown pumpkin or butternut pumpkin, peeled, deseeded and cut into 3cm chunks
METHOD
Preheat the oven to 180°C fan bake.
Whisk the oil, maple syrup, curry powder, garlic and ginger together in a large bowl and season well with salt and pepper. Add the pumpkin, apple and the onion and turn to coat everything well.
Tip onto a large oven tray and spread out to an even layer, scraping in any oil mixture left in the bowl. If the veges are packed on top of one another, they will steam rather than caramelise.
Roast for about 40 minutes or until soft and golden, turning once during cooking.
Let the vegetables cool for 10 minutes then place in a large food processor with 1 cup of the stock and blend until smooth. Tip into a large pot and stir in the remaining stock. Season with salt and pepper and bring to the boil. If you want a thinner soup, add more stock. Stir in the lemon juice.
TO SERVE:
Ladle into warm bowls and top with a dollop of yoghurt and pumpkin seeds.
• 1 apple, peeled, quartered, core removed and roughly chopped
• 1 large brown onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cups vegetable stock
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
TO SERVE:
Greek natural yoghurt and toasted pumpkin seeds
Written by Tony Alexander, Source: oneroof.co.nz
The slightly better-than-expected inflation numbers released this week have strengthened expectations that the Reserve Bank will cut the Official Cash Rate by 0.25% to 3% on August 20. But before anyone gets optimistic about the impact of still slightly falling interest rates on the economy and the housing market, there are two important things to note.
First, mortgage rate cuts did not prevent the 2% decline in house prices seen over the past three months. Business margins are crimped like never before, young and middle-aged Kiwis are upping sticks for Australia, and weeding out continues across all business sectors and especially retailing, residential construction, and hospitality.
As I strongly warned 11 months ago, falling interest rates are not a panacea delivering comfortably high growth in one’s economy and incomes. All that they do is remove a source of restraint. Applying a boost is quite different, and in the absence of a fresh crash of some sort, big additional cuts in interest rates after August 20 are unlikely.
Second, the job of us economists is not just to make forecasts (which usually turn out wrong), and to comment on the latest data. We also need to offer perspective, and the best way to do that is to step back from the day-to-day fray and look at the bigger picture.
When we do that for inflation, the scene is challenging. The country’s inflation rate has just lifted to 2.7% from a low of 2.2% six months ago. This is within the 1% to 3% target range, so there is no need for great concern.
However, the 2.7% outcome occurred after New Zealand’s economy shrank 1% in the year to March and grew only 1.3% the year before that. Our growth tends to average just over 2.5% and stronger growth tends to produce more inflation, not less.
Higher inflation also occurred against a backdrop of rising unemployment, from 3.4% two years ago to 5.1% now; falling net migration flows, from 80,000 a year ago to 15,000; and falling consents for new houses, from 51,000 to 34,000.
There will be some new downward pressure on the rate of inflation over the next two years as recent hikes in food prices are unlikely to be repeated, and some falls may occur. There might even be a slowing of increases in council rates if the Government can exercise control over these local monopolies.
But businesses are indicating to rebuild margins by raising prices once customer flows are much stronger. Monetary policy aims at influencing inflation 18-24 months in the future.
In that timeframe, the return of over 2% growth, falling unemployment, slightly rising house prices, and margin rebuilding suggest inflation could easily exceed the current rate of 2.7%.
Borrowers can reasonably look forward to another 0.25% to 0.5% coming off floating mortgage rates in the next nine months and maybe 0.25% off the likes of the one-year fixed rate. But for longer-term fixed rates, the scope for declines from current levels is limited.
Add in upward pressure from the new blowing out of US Federal debt, causing higher medium to long-term interest rates around the world, and we are left with the current situation being almost (but not quite) as good as it gets for borrowers this cycle.
Source: yourhomeandgarden.co.nz
Honey, you shrunk your wool sweater... but not all is lost.
We’ve all been there. You’ll be folding yet another load of laundry, and to your horror, you discover that your favourite woollen blanket, the one you drape over your sofa for that perfect, cosy vibe, has mysteriously shrunk. Instead of its usual overlarge size you love for movie nights, it now looks suited to the dog bed, maybe just barely.
Perhaps your partner accidentally tossed it into a hot wash or mindlessly threw it in the dryer. Or maybe it was you (but hey, we’ll still blame them). Whatever the case, you’re probably wondering if there is any hope of rescuing your shrunken woollen blanket. Thankfully, with a few simple steps, it’s entirely possible to unshrink winter woollies, saving your wallet, while giving the planet a little break too.
Below, we dive into why woollen items are prone to shrinking, how to reverse the damage, and what you can do to prevent precious garments from shrinking in the future.
Why does wool shrink? Wool fibres are covered in tiny, overlapping ‘scales’, kind of like the shingles on a roof. When wool is exposed to heat, moisture, or agitation, like in a hot wash or tumble dryer, these scales lift and interlock with one another. This causes the fibres to pull tighter together, making your cosy jumper suddenly feel like it’s shrunk two sizes too small.
Water also plays a role and causes the fibres to swell, and as they dry, they can contract and pull closer together, locking in that unwanted shrinkage.
Not all fibres are created equal, though. Wool types with bigger or more numerous scales, like coarse wool and merino, shrink more easily. Meanwhile, smoother fibres such as cashmere, silk, and cotton tend to hold their shape better. Synthetic fibres like polyester are less likely to shrink at all.
How to unshrink woollen garments and blankets: If your beloved winter woollies are suddenly looking more like a crop top than a cosy, oversized jumper, don’t panic. The ‘corkboard method’ is a clever trick that can help bring back the original shape. With a bit of patience and gentle care, this laundry hack works wonders on natural fibres, such as wool, cashmere and cotton.
Start by filling a bucket or sink with lukewarm water and a few drops of super-gentle baby shampoo or conditioner. This helps to relieve the fibres. Let the item soak between 20 minutes to two hours. Some people like to add a splash of fabric softener, too, for extra softness.
Don’t rinse your woollen garment. Instead, gently squeeze out the water, rather than wringing. Lay the item on a towel, roll it up to press out excess moisture. For smaller items, you can also try using a salad spinner.
Once the item is damp (rather than wet), carefully stretch out the garment over a cork board or blocking mat (used for sewers and crocheters to shape their projects) and pin it in place. Let it rest for an hour, then unpin, gently stretch it a little more, and pin it again. Repeat this process until your garment regains its original size and shape.
How to prevent shrinkage: Before you even think of tossing your woolly jumper into the wash, check the care label. According to The Woolmark Company, that tiny tag holds the secrets to keeping your garment safe and sug for years to come.
If you see a little tub symbol with a ’30’ or ’40’ inside, good news: your garment is machine-washable. But be sure to pop it on the wool or delicate cycle, and keep the water temperature below 40 degrees Celsius.
If you see a symbol with a hand dipping into water, that means your garment is hand-wash only. To wash, fill a basin with lukewarm water (30 – 40 degrees), add a wool-specific detergent, and let the item float. Gently swish the water, and don’t rub, wring, or stretch the fabric. When done, rinse thoroughly, press out the excess water, and reshape your garment while its still damp.
Drying wool is just as important as washing it. Lay sweaters or blankets flat on a pale, lint-free towel over a drying rack or table. Never hang them, and keep them out of direct sunlight. Don’t throw your woollies into the dryer, especially if the care label shows a square with a crossed-out circle.
Stick to these simple rules, and your woollens will stay soft, shapely, and forever wearable – no heartbreak necessary.
Source: oneroof.co.nz, Sponsored by Resene
Beige is not just one colour, but a whole spectrum of neutrals.
Is there a colour more in need of an image boost than beige?
Like vanilla, the name has often become associated with meaning bland and dull, but, we’d argue, unfairly so!
In fact, beige is one of the most versatile colours there is, working in serene soothing colour palettes just as well as a backdrop for bolder, invigorating looks. The world is your Resene Pale Oyster!
Modern beige
“It’s so much more inviting than white,” says Resene stylist Monuean Ryan, of using beige in your interiors.
Sandy beiges are the perfect backdrop for a breezy beachy sitting room.
The key, she says, is recognising that beige doesn’t refer to one colour, but a whole spectrum of neutrals. Beige takes its name from the French word for cloth made from undyed wool and is often used as a ‘catch-all’ name for any neutral that isn’t white, grey or black.
Beiges can refer to anything from yellow-based creams like Resene Spanish White to deeper pink-toned tans like Resene Mongoose, all of which actually makes it a really fun, adaptable colour to work with.
“Beige has had a bad rap in the past, but it has evolved into a versatile neutral that works in well with our on-going desire to feel connected to nature.
Popular modern beiges tend to be warm, pale shades which offer an organic, natural feel.
“Paired with other nature-inspired colours and materials they help a space feel cosy and soft,” Resene colour expert Meryl Southey says. “Add pops of deeper tones like green Resene Clover, rustic reds like Resene Pioneer Red and browns like Resene Trek to add depth.
The beauty of beige
Once you see beige in a new light and realise not all beiges are created equal it opens up a whole range of possibilities in how and where they can be used, Meryl says.
Beige neutrals paired with deep charcoal offer a modern and dramatic alternative to a classic black and white palette.
As well as making a practical and adaptable base colour from which you can start to build a complex - or minimalist - colour palette, they can help add warmth to cool spaces, or add airiness to small, confined spaces.
They can help rooms feel both more spacious and cosier and they are excellent at complementing key pieces of furniture or decor in brighter accent colours, by neither completely fading into the background, nor dominating a space.
“Beige is not only for aesthetic purposes but will also optimise a room,” Meryl says. “Mushroom beiges like Resene Triple Blanc, for example, are great at brightening up a space and can make a room feel larger than it is.
“Sandy beiges such as Resene Bison Hide with its green edge, are, on the other hand, ideal for rooms which have cooler accents or hard surfaces, adding contrast without the starkness of a cool-toned white.
Layers of a beige neutral are given additional interest and movement with the use of a subtle textured effect.
For a sophisticated finish that’s as calming as it is chic Meryl suggests pale coffee beiges such as Resene Almond Frost paired with other soft, muted shades like palest pink beige Resene Pearl Bush, grey-blue Resene Ship Cove and classic midtoned brown Resene Brown Derby.
Warm minimalism
Using neutrals to create a pared back palette is a straightforward way to create a classic minimalist palette. Traditional minimalist looks are often anchored in a simple white like Resene Eighth Rice Cake, or a subtle off-white like Resene Blanc but a different approach could be to warm up your minimalism with layers of subtle beiges.
Try Resene Biscotti in layers with its eighth, quarter, half and double variations for layers of warmth that build visual interest and colour shifts across walls, floors, ceilings, trims and decor without creating any sense of busy-ness or visual clutter.
To complete the look while staying with a minimalist palette, try a stain or stain wash finish in Resene Colorwood Natural or Resene Colorwood Becalm.
If you do want one or two touches of contrast try a soft, greyed violet like Resene Enigma and finish with an accent or two in coppery Resene Korma.
Let’s talk about greige
If classic tan-toned beiges are not for you, you can veer more toward the charcoal end of the spectrum to discover greige. The word is an obvious portmanteau of grey and beige and refers to shades that sit in the not quite grey, not quite beige area of the spectrum.
Resene Greige is a clear example as a perfect balance between a warm grey and a mushroom-y beige. Other examples from the Resene colour range are Resene Stonewall and Resene Truffle.
These mid-toned neutrals are a good choice to add to otherwisewhite interiors and exteriors to make them feel more colourful than they are. Their blend of grey and taupe means they are particularly versatile and open up new areas of the colour spectrum to play with.
Try Resene Stonewall with deep grey blue Resene Big Stone, against a fresh, white backdrop of Resene White Pointer. Resene Half Stonewall used on a home exterior also works beautifully with trims in Resene Eighth Rice Cake. Add a bold front door in Resene Fire for drama.
For a soothing interior space try dusty, sophisticated greige Resene Cloudy with deep industrial browns like Resene Space Shuttle, subtle lilac Resene Santas Grey or pastel aqua Resene Jet Stream.
Other combinations to try:
Yellow-toned beiges such as Resene Putty bring a sunny note and work well with deep greens like Resene Celtic or creamy off-whites like Resene Bianca.
Chocolate brown adds the perfect contrast to this beige-on-beige foyer.
Beige tones with a very subtle hint of green such as Resene Pavlova add unexpected complexity to a pared back palette. Team with Resene Lusty for a dramatic edge or layer with Resene Half Pearl Lusta for an all-neutral look.
Peach-toned beiges add a pastel softness to create elegant modern rooms. Pair with Resene Avocado for earthiness or Resene Lonestar for drama.
Top tip: The versatility of a lot of beige tones means they can change in appearance based on the colours and light conditions around them. Always test your colours first using Resene testpots painted on to A2 card with a 2 cm border left unpainted. Move your swatches around the room and check the colours at different times of the day to see which colours best suit your space.
As late as last week, (like every other article) this update would have also highlighted economist expectations that most of the downward movement in mortgage rates had already occurred and a view further reductions may likely be modest—in the range of 20 to 40 basis points at most.
However, the narrative has shifted in the past few days. While I still do not anticipate major swings or sharp moves in interest rates, recent developments suggest the outlook is less certain than previously thought. It’s a reminder that in today’s environment, the lending and economic landscape can change rapidly, underlining the importance of keeping up to date and reviewing your mortgage strategy.
Therefore see below some commentary factoring in the following developments:
• The latest ANZ Business Outlook released 30th July 2025 https://www.anz.co.nz/about-us/economicmarkets-research/business-outlook/
• Upcoming unemployment figures due Wednesday 6th August https://www.interest.co.nz/economy/134418/ labour-market-figures-be-released-comingweek-may-show-unemployment-rate-rising-53
• The 15% US tariff on NZ exports
• And the potential impact on OCR and interest rates
Economic Signals Are Weakening Further:
The July ANZ Business Outlook shows business confidence rose modestly (+48%), but the details reveal a softening economy:
• Residential construction activity expectations dropped sharply – the weakest in over a year.
• Retail and construction sectors remain under pressure, while agriculture holds strong.
• Employment outlook remains fragile, with past employment now negative across all sectors.
• Inflation pressures are easing:
- Expected price increases dropped to 43.5% –lowest since Dec 2024.
- Cost expectations fell to 76%, and inflation expectations held steady at 2.68%.
These signs suggest the Reserve Bank will likely be under pressure to ease monetary policy, especially if the labour market weakens as expected.
All eyes are now on this Wednesday’s labour market data release. Economists expect:
• Unemployment for the June quarter to hit 5.3%, above the RBNZ’s forecast of 5.2%.
• If it reaches 5.4%, it would be the highest unemployment rate since Dec 2015.
Why it matters:
• The Reserve Bank has long forecast that June 2025 would be the peak for unemployment.
• If the data confirms a weakening job market, it strengthens the case for another Official Cash Rate (OCR) cut at the August 20 review – and possibly another before the end of the year.
High-frequency data (job ads, employment indicators) already point to falling demand for labour, especially in retail and services. This rising unemployment puts further pressure on household spending – a critical piece of any economic recovery.
The recent 15% US tariff on New Zealand exports introduces a new headwind for the NZ economy:
• Export sectors may face declining revenues, reducing business confidence.
• This adds downside risk to GDP growth and may suppress inflation further.
• Result? More pressure on the RBNZ to cut interest rates sooner and further to support the economy.
With business sentiment weakening, unemployment climbing, and the economy teetering, the Reserve Bank is now clearly in an easing phase. The OCR sits at 3.25%, down from a 5.5% peak, and is widely expected to drop again later this month.
As a borrower, this could mean:
• Lower fixed rate opportunities emerging later this year.
• If you’re floating, fixing soon, or considering refinancing – now is a smart time to review your mortgage strategy.
• Uncertainty remains high, and the window to lock in competitive rates could reopen.
Feel free to reach out if you’d like to review your current loan structure or chat about how these changes might impact you.
Stay safe and informed,
Warmest Regards
Introducing Ray White Now, an insight to provide clarity to all our customers on what is happening in the market now.
If you are considering selling we explain how you can take advantage of the current conditions to achieve the best possible sales outcome.
Recipe by Olivia Galletly, Photography by Olivia Galletly, Source: dish.co.nz
A
dense and fudgy slice with crunchy nuts and seeds and a thick layer of dark chocolate. Buckwheat has a subtle nutty taste but it’s really there to add crunch and texture. Perfect served with an espresso.
MAKES: 12-15 PIECES
INGREDIENTS
• 1½ cups (220 grams) dates
• ¾ cup (70 grams) walnut pieces
• ½ cup (70 grams) slivered almonds
• ⅓ cup (28 grams) desiccated coconut
• 3 tablespoons sesame seeds
• 2 tablespoons smooth peanut butter
• ⅓ cup (60 grams) buckwheat
METHOD
Roughly chop the dates and place in a large heatproof bowl. Cover with boiling water and set aside for 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 180°C regular bake. Line an oven tray with baking paper. Line a loaf tin, roughly 23cm x 11cm, with baking paper.
Place the walnuts and slivered almonds on the prepared tray and bake for 5 minutes. Add the coconut and sesame seeds and bake for a further 3–4 minutes or until golden and toasted.
Drain the dates and add the peanut butter. Mix vigorously until a smooth paste forms. Add the nuts, coconut, sesame seeds, buckwheat, ground almonds and salt and stir until well incorporated. Press the mixture into the base of the prepared tin.
Place the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Add the coconut oil and heat in the microwave in 30-second bursts until the chocolate has melted, stirring in between each burst. Alternatively, melt the chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water.
Pour the chocolate over the base and refrigerate for 4–6 hours or until firm. Use a sharp knife to slice into small pieces.
• ¼ cup (25 grams) ground almonds
• 1 pinch table salt
TOPPING
• 250 grams dark chocolate, roughly chopped
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
编辑部/NZET
新西兰优先党（New Zealand First） 党魁温斯顿·彼得斯（Winston Peters）今日透露，涉及海外买家购 房禁令的政策变动有望在年内宣布。
尽管他坚称该党并未“软化立场”，但 多方迹象表明，联合政府正认真评估 是否调整这项自2018年实施的严格 禁令。
这项禁令的历史与现状
新西兰的海外买家购房禁令可追溯 至2018年，当时由工党、优先党和绿 党组成的联合政府出于缓解房价高 涨、保障本地居民购房机会的考虑，决 定将“住宅用地”纳入《海外投资法》 (Overseas Investment Act)所界定 的“敏感资产”类别，从而限制非居民 和非公民购买现有住宅房产。
这一政策在当时具有明显的政治与社 会背景——新西兰房地产长期供不应 求，外国资本大量涌入被认为助推了 房价失控。
尤其是在奥克兰、皇后镇等 热点地区，高端房产交易中海外买家 占比一度达到三成以上。
然而，7年过去，外部环境和国内经济 格局已大为不同。当前新西兰正面临 净移民放缓、建筑许可大幅下滑，投资 信心低迷等多重挑战，重新审视该禁 令的适当性，成为政府和公众讨论的 焦点。
政府内部分歧浮现
尽管之前Peters多次在媒体前表示， 优先党坚持“外国买家需对新西兰经 济作出实质贡献”的立场，但总理克里
斯托弗·卢克森（Christopher Luxon） 已多次公开表示，政府正就“某种程度 放宽限制”进行内部磋商。
新西兰副总理兼行动党党魁戴维·西摩 （David Seymour）也长期批评该禁 令“既非有效，也非自由”，并主张取消 对高端房产或特定投资类别的限制。
目前仍未有具体草案提交财政部，但 据英文先驱报了解，联合政府内正在 就“允许外国人在特定前提下购房”进 行政策设计。包括：仅开放特定价格门 槛以上的住宅交易（如200万纽币以 上）；要求购房者同时在本地设立企 业、创造就业或长期投资；严格限制购 房后空置、炒卖行为；增设“外国买家 税”作为财政回报机制。
若解禁对市场会造成什么影响？ 若海外买家禁令有所放宽，首当 其冲受益的将是新西兰的高端 住宅市场。Ray White Mission Bay、Kohimarama 与 St Heliers 三家高端地产分行负责人 Wayne Maguire 指出，“奥克兰、惠灵顿和皇 后镇等核心高净值区域，积压已久的 高价房源有望率先盘活。”
根据Ray White数据显示，当前高端市 场的平均交易周期较疫情前延长超过 40%，议价空间持续扩大。在本地买家 普遍观望、开发商信心受挫的背景下， 海外资本的回流将为这一板块注入新 的流动性，并稳定市场对高端房产的 长期预期。
但业内普遍认为，政策设计若缺乏明 确门槛与监管机制，可能引发“需求外 溢”，抬升整体房价，加剧中低价位买 家压力。Wayne建议，设定400万纽币 以上的购房门槛，并对海外买家同步 征收印花税，以实现“高门槛、低扰动” 的平衡目标。
Wayne最后表示，“房地产市场的开 放程度不仅关系交易活跃度，更是国 际资本评估一个国家政策信号的关键 指标，这不是几套房子的博弈，而是 新西兰对全球高质量资本释放的战略 态度。”
民众意愿与社会平衡是最大考量 回顾2018年禁令出台的初衷与背景， 其目标是遏制过热房市、保障本地购 房机会。而如今，新西兰在面对经济放 缓、地产低迷、以及全球关税战等多重 压力下，是否继续“一刀切”式的禁止， 确实值得重新评估。
尽管经济学者多支持有条件放宽，但 公众舆论对此仍较敏感。根据2023年 一项Stuff民调，有超过62%的新西兰 人支持继续限制外国买家，担心其“ 推高房价”、“囤积资产”或“加剧不平 等”。
因此，若禁令真将调整，政府需在政策 沟通、舆论引导与保障本地买家权益 之间做好平衡。例如同步推出首次购 房者支持政策、加快开发许可审批、推 动中低价位住房供应等配套政策，以 减缓改革阻力。
Yuan Hong +64 27 5566 886
yuan.hong@geo-solutions.co.nz www.geo-solutions.co.nz
Site Investigations & Interpretation
Site investigations are performed by our specialist field staff and the site specific results are analysed by our qualified and experienced geotechnical engineers.
新西兰应拒绝极端，选择平衡! 值得关注的是，此轮政策松口的更深 层背景，是新西兰试图重新校准其在 国际资本、投资移民与地缘经济中的 角色。当年海外买家禁令的实施，主要 是为防止新西兰房市被外来资本过度 炒作、推高房价、挤压本地居民购房空 间，从而引发价格泡沫与社会不平等 现象。
今天，我们面对的则是另一全球性挑 战：如何在全球资本流动中保持主权、 安全与开放。
海外买家禁令的讨论，实质上是一场 关于“新西兰该成为怎样的国家”的讨 论，是全面封闭自守，还是精准吸引外 资；是被动接受资本游走，还是主动设 定规则引导它留下。
答案，或许不是“是”与“否”的二元对 立，而是看我们能否在复杂局势中，找 出那条最具战略性与道德感的平衡 路径。
GeoSolutions is a specialised consultancy practising in geotechnical engineering. We cover projects and sites all around the North Island and look after residential building sector.
GeoSolutions team is certified Chartered Geotechnical Engineer (CPEng) with Engineering New Zealand. We are also registered producer statement author (PS1, PS2 and PS4) with Auckland Council.
GeoSolutions is your reliable and cost-effective Geotechnical engineering professionals. Talk to us now and find out how we can offer assist.
Geotechnial Design & Reporting
We have analytical tools that allow detailed design on retaining structures and assess slope stability, with the in-house capability and expertise to design for your next project.
Construction Monitoring
We actively involve during the construction phase of the work to ensure our recommendations specified in our report followed and the project runs smoothly.
Wayne Maguire Ceo And Auctioneer 027 422 3377
Cathy Roselli
Licensee Salesperson 021 750 454
Gerry Smutz
Licensee Salesperson 0275 203 980
Lesley Harris Licensee Salesperson 0274 935 498
Ana Pristopan Licensee Salesperson 021 351 313
Christine Kahn Licensee Salesperson 027 477 4407
Jackie Dragicevich Licensee Salesperson 021 657 521
Wilson Licensee Salesperson 021 916 626
Anna Stephenson Licensee Salesperson 021 393 565
Donna Watts Licensee Salesperson 027 250 9417
Jono Barton Licensee Salesperson 027 919 4944
Brown Licensee Salesperson 021 731 023
Bryce Holmes Licensee Salesperson 021 908 293
Ester Kanaway Licensee Salesperson 021 523 637
Judith Everitt Licensee Salesperson 021 2777 844
Peter Coker Licensee Salesperson 021 666 203
Ray White Mission Bay, Kohimarama & St Heliers - Maguires One Teamare experienced real estate professionals committed to providing you with the best possible service.
Rain Diao
Licensee Salesperson 021 066 4976
Vanessa Mowlem
Licensee Salesperson 021 840 700
Hermanus Verheyen
Licensee Salesperson 021 081 16217
Elizabeth Ling
Licensee Salesperson 021 383 939
Richard Lyne
Licensee Salesperson 021 687 000
Vicki Huntley
Licensee Salesperson 021 702 443
Bella Stefano
Licensee Salesperson 021 668 938
Martin Ma Licensee Salesperson 0277 888 365
Rosco Valentine
Licensee Salesperson 021 726 344
Priya Waller Licensee Salesperson 021 131 2018
Lily Chang Licensee Salesperson 021 280 5400
Tsapko Licensee Salesperson 021 770 115
Stuart Trewheela
Licensee Salesperson 027 482 4783
Anya Khominich Licensee Salesperson 027 654 3006
James Ford
Licensee Salesperson 021 020 37340
Mi Zhou Licensee Salesperson 022 019 6329
We have a specialist team of experienced and successful agents who have a unique insight into Auckland Suburbs including Mission Bay, St Heliers, Kohimarama, Orakei & Glendowie.
Rushmi Mahmud Licensee Salesperson 022 182 2122
Vannessa Torres Licensee Salesperson 022 470 5839
Peter Sikka Licensee Salesperson 021 853 698
Jasreen Sikka Licensee Salesperson 021 135 1798
Sanchez Licensee Salesperson 021 115 4571
Ray White St Heliers 10 Polygon Road rwstheliers.co.nz
Ray White Mission Bay 33 Tamaki Drive rwmissionbay.co.nz
Ray White Kohimarama 5 Averill Avenue rwkohimarama.co.nz
Local Statistics
June 2025
Mangawhai,
AUCTION
Maguires One Team - Reporting period: Apr 2025 - Jun 2025 50% 8%
OTHER SALE
(Maguires One Team percentage of homes selling within 90 days)
OTHER SALE METHODS
AUCTION 35 52 days on market days on market
(Maguires One Team average days on market)
Sell with confidence through the auction method
NZET
是新西兰领先的中文媒体平台，专注于房地产、财经资讯与市场趋势解读。
我们服务于新西兰本地高质量的华语读者群体——包括地产投资者、
购房者、金融从业者及商业决策者。
我们的文章与视频内容长期稳定覆盖超过 50,000 名新西兰本地读者与观众， 正逐步成长为最具影响力与公信力的华文财经媒体之一。
我们原创的核心栏目《新西兰地产行情》，深度解析楼市动态与政策影响， 已成为本地最受关注的中文地产资讯品牌之一。
选择 NZET，即可借助我们专业的内容影响力与精准的读者触达力， 全面提升您在华语市场的品牌曝光与转化效果。
欢迎广告合作，获取最新媒体方案，精准连接新西兰核心华语市场。
NZET is New Zealand’s leading Chinese-language media platform, focusing on real estate, financial news, and market trend analysis.
We serve a high-quality Chinese-speaking readership in New Zealand— including property investors, homebuyers, financial professionals, and business decision-makers.
Our articles and video content consistently reach over 50,000 local readers and viewers in New Zealand, and we are steadily growing into one of the most influential and trusted Chinese-language financial media outlets in the country.
By choosing NZET, you gain access to our professional content influence and highly targeted audience reach—empowering your brand to achieve greater exposure and conversion in the Chinese market.
Contact us for advertising opportunities and the latest media kit to connect directly with New Zealand’s core Chinese-speaking audience.
A RARE DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY-OWN THE REMARKABLE!
This is more than just a property. Fly in by helicopter and step out in style to your private estate retreat. It's an investment in scale, location, and legacy. Whether you're seeking a luxury private residence, a hospitality investment, or a visionary development opportunity, this estate delivers on every level. Owned by one family for over 80 years, this generational estate in the Waitakere Ranges is on the market - offering unmatched subdivision potential and multiple income streams in one of Auckland's most sought-after natural settings.
Subdivision Investment: Potential to subdivide into 7 sections, including existing infrastructure and buildingsfast-track your next development project.
Situated on an elevated 28-hectare site, rich in native forest and protected surroundings - rare landholding this close to Auckland. Resource consent in place for an additional 12 luxury hotel rooms (valid until April 2026), adding immediate value to the existing 28-room accommodation.
Income-Producing Assets Already in Place: Two hotel buildings - one iconic, one newly built - offering 28 highend rooms, each with panoramic views of Auckland City and the Hauraki Gulf.
On-site restaurant, wellness retreat, spa, pool, gym, and full resort amenities supporting guest and event revenue.
Conference centre, wedding venue, and private chapel - ideal for year-round bookings and large-scale events. Helipad and dedicated landing area to attract highend clientele. Two additional serviced apartments and a spacious 4-bedroom home provide further rental or resale opportunities.
Location & Lifestyle Appeal: Just 30 minutes from Auckland CBD, yet completely immersed in naturewith waterfalls, walking tracks, streams, and reserves surrounding the site.
Positioned within the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park - offering tranquility, prestige, and long-term value protection. Access to key regional infrastructure while retaining complete privacy and seclusion.
Investor Highlights: Development-ready site with highend amenities already generating income.
Rare combination of natural beauty, scale, and proximity to Auckland. Short-term and long-term growth potential through subdivision, hospitality, and events. Position yourself above the market - and build the future here.
$15,000,000
Viewing: Please contact salesperson for viewing details
Set against an awe-inspiring backdrop, this distinguished 3,700 sq ft clifftop residence offers sweeping, uninterrupted views from Rangitoto Island to the iconic Sky Tower. Perfectly blending modern sophistication with natural beauty, this residence fosters a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living. Located in the highly coveted St Heliers enclave, this property promises an exclusive lifestyle, offering both ultimate privacy and effortless proximity to the vibrant village and waterfront.
View: Please contact salespeople for viewing details
20/20
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