Spring 2025: A Real Season of Opportunity

After a few stop-start years, the property market finally feels like it’s finding its feet again. Early signs suggest spring 2025 could be one of the most active seasons we’ve seen in some time.

Spring is usually about fresh beginnings, but this year the change runs deeper - we may be seeing the start of a real shift in the market.

August’s figures show a 9% lift in new listings compared with the same time last year, a clear sign that sellers are feeling confident and re-engaging.

While some of that uplift is typical for spring, a few wider economic and behavioural factors are also converging right now, creating a window of opportunity.

Interest rates heading the right way

For the first time in several seasons, buyers are entering spring with monetary policy at their backs. Another recent OCR drop has eased interest rates further and with asking prices stable, we’re seeing stronger enquiry and a faster turnaround for well-presented homes - especially in the lifestyle and high-end space.

A global spotlight on New Zealand

We’re also seeing renewed interest from offshore buyers. The new Active Investor Plus visa rules and fresh investor appetite are drawing international capital back to New Zealand’s shores.

As the northern-hemisphere summer winds down and travel plans are made, our market - with its lifestyle appeal, political stability and investment potential - is firmly on the radar. For vendors, this renewed attention can translate into a wider pool of buyers and stronger competition.

Confidence returning, region by region

Across the country, the numbers show steady momentum. Listings are up, prices remain stable and buyers who’ve been watching from the sidelines are starting to make moves. It’s a change in mindset that can quickly build momentum across the market.

Looking past the national picture, certain regions are already outperforming expectations, with some recording annual price growth of more than 11 percent. Canterbury, Tasman and Nelson continue to show strong momentum, each posting healthy year-on-year gains in the 4–5% range. These results point to a market that’s far from uniform.

Regional confidence is returning and lifestyle centres are leading the charge.

Here in Auckland’s south-eastern lifestyle belt, from Clevedon and Whitford through to the Eastern Bays, we’re seeing significant enquiry for premium properties and, in many cases, achieving stand-out sales. These micro-markets often lead the broader market, providing a glimpse into where momentum is heading next.

A standout example is 5 Birch Park Lane in Whitford, a landmark lifestyle estate currently on the market. Set across 5.2 hectares of manicured grounds, the property blends timeless architecture with resort-style amenities, equestrian facilities of international calibre and rare riparian water rights.

With elegant accommodation, a championship tennis court, pool house and gym, and direct helicopter access to the Hauraki Gulf and Waiheke Island, it epitomises the calibre of property now capturing global attention. Early interest from both local and offshore buyers reflects the strong demand for world-class lifestyle assets as market conditions improve.

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This spring isn’t simply another point on the property calendar. It represents a rare intersection of economic settings, international demand and returning buyer confidence - a combination that doesn’t come around often. For sellers, the message is clear: timing matters, and in 2025 the timing could not be more favourable.