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Sell with us- Marcus D'Cunha
- 18th Sep 2025
On the Kāpiti Coast, lifestyle is everything.
Beaches, bush walks and a laid‑back pace are drawing families, retirees and city escapees alike.
Since relocating from the UK to Waikanae a decade ago, Marcus D’Cunha has embraced the relaxed rhythm of coastal life. With beach sunsets, native bush on his doorstep and a tight-knit community, he’s found his ideal lifestyle and now helps others do the same across one of New Zealand’s most appealing coastal regions.
"We’re in a solid patch on the Kāpiti Coast right now. According to REINZ stats, prices are up 1.9% on this time last year, and Q2 sales figures have been relatively strong. The area is averaging 97 sales per month in what is traditionally a quieter time of year. The lower bracket of $1 million and under is performing particularly well. Properties are consistently selling by tender or deadline sale methods, open-home attendances are solid and there’s a good mix of local and regional buyers. Similar to the rest of the country, homes in mid-to-upper price brackets are taking a little longer to sell, but deals are being done when vendors are prepared to meet the market."
Wellington is a unique market with its own set of challenges. With the Government job cuts, the recovery is taking longer to kick into gear than in other parts of the country. Within the region, Kāpiti almost has its own ‘micro-climate’ property market. As a popular place to retire, our population is on the older side, and many of our vendors are now looking to downsize.
"For vendors of premium properties, local knowledge and international reach matter. Kāpiti has no shortage of stunning beachfront and lifestyle homes and it’s starting to get on the radar of overseas buyers – I've recently fielded enquiries from places like San Francisco and London."
"On the buyer side, we’re seeing an uptick in interest, especially from Wellingtonians with young families seeking space, sunshine, and lifestyle. As I like to say to Wellingtonians – and no one disagrees – people move to Kāpiti for better weather, less wind, and fewer earthquakes."
"Looking ahead, we expect steady, sustainable growth throughout the rest of 2025. Supply remains tight and economic uncertainty lingers, so both buyers and sellers need to stay flexible and informed. Sellers who present their homes well and are willing to meet the market will continue to achieve strong results."
Locals' Guide to the Kapiti Coast
Where’s home for you?
I moved to Waikanae from the UK in 2015 and was immediately taken by the space, greenery, and relaxed attitudes. There’s a fantastic beach just five minutes away, sheltered by Kāpiti Island – it’s shallow and ideal for kids. We’ve also got an abundance of bush walks and access to the Tararuas right on our doorstep.
Which local restaurant or café tops your list?
For coffee, Remedy in Raumati Beach always hits the spot. I’m also very lucky to have the Salt & Wood Collective BBQ restaurant in Waikanae just around the corner from me. I can never look past their smash burger and pork belly bites.
What’s the best location for outdoor activity?
The sunsets over Kāpiti Island are pretty epic, and I often head out for beach walks in summer with my family. If I’m after more of a workout, the Hemi Matenga bush walk is hard but rewarding. And if you’re adventurous, the 10km Paekākāriki Escarpment Track between Pukerua Bay and Paekākāriki is lauded as one of the great local walks. The swing bridges are good fun and the coastal views are incredible.
Which local event do you most look forward to each year?
The annual Kāpiti Food Fair has to be up there. We have an abundance of artisan food and drink producers in this part of the world and having them all in one place is always something to look forward to. As a petrolhead, I also love the Coffee & Cars events at Southward Car Museum. There can be up to 250 cars on show, and it really draws a crowd.
For you, what’s the best part about living in Waikanae?
Coming from just outside of London, I never tire of being able to look up at the hills or being in the countryside within minutes. Plus, the people are welcoming and there’s a real sense of community.