Find Your Stride in the Waikato

Since swapping Auckland for the open spaces of the Waikato, Simone Cronin has found a better pace of life and a thriving regional market. As Sales Manager for Waikato, she shares her perspective and on-the-ground insights from Cambridge, Tamahere and Matangi.

Here in the Waikato we’re seeing the strength of the regional property market in action. Cambridge, Tamahere and Matangi are experiencing good activity from buyers across all price points, including the premium market. As always, it goes to show: when properties are presented and marketed beautifully, and vendors are motivated to make their next move, the results follow.

REINZ data reflects this. While the September Waikato regional median price eased 3.9% year-on-year to $730,000, the Cambridge median last month sat at $925,000 – 3% up on September 2024’s $897,000. Auctions are gaining momentum, with more homes offered under the hammer and stronger engagement in the auction room.

First-home buyers and downsizers remain active drivers of the Cambridge market, while premium purchasers across all three locations are taking a more considered, measured approach. First-home buyers are also becoming more confident, particularly when we can educate them on the auction process and help them see the benefits of engaging early.

A consistent buyer trend is enquiry from outside our region, typically from Auckland and Wellington. Equity-strong Aucklanders are often willing to drive down at short notice to privately view new listings. Private viewings are preferred by vendors of premium homes which doesn’t deter serious buyers if the property ticks all their boxes. Also, expat Kiwi enquiry has increased significantly in the last three months.

Compared to other parts of the country, we’re fortunate to have a range of levers to pull across different price brackets and lifestyle journeys. Waikato is a great place to live and continues to be an attractive region. Getting around is so easy because of the excellent highways and byways.

On the vendor side, we are seeing more sellers looking to downsize or free up capital to support their next step – a trend that’s more prominent than this time last year. When it comes to premium property, local knowledge and international networks are hugely valuable to vendors. Our white-glove service for international buyers – including referrals to trusted professionals in OIO, AIP, and tax advisory – is a major point of difference. Our vendors appreciate the investment we make in this space as it is genuine and adds tremendous value to our ability to generate results.

I expect activity and sales to continue to go from strength to strength in the months ahead. We’re seeing more vendors come to terms with the new market landscape and when they’re motivated by where they want to be next, we can make it happen.