Why New Zealand’s Investor Visa Is Attracting Global Families Again

Can you paint a picture of the clients you work with and what draws them to New Zealand?

At Greener Pastures New Zealand, we work with high-net-worth individuals and families from around the world who are seeking what we call a “Plan B” (or a new chapter) built around lifestyle, security, and meaningful investment.

Our clients are drawn to New Zealand for three main reasons. First, the lifestyle: few places in the world offer such a balance of natural beauty, open space, and access to adventure alongside world-class amenities. Second, the country’s political stability, safety, and strong sense of community create real peace of mind for families. And finally, in an increasingly uncertain world, New Zealand stands apart as a genuine safe haven - a place where people can invest, live, and thrive with confidence.

Since the AIP visa and property rule changes were announced, what shifts have you noticed in the enquiries coming through?

Greener Pastures New Zealand launched in February 2025, shortly before the updated Active Investor Plus (AIP) visa policy was announced and came into effect on 1 April. Since then, we’ve seen a surge in interest, particularly from the United States, which has long been one of New Zealand’s strongest investor markets.

Demand has been so strong that we brought forward the launch of our second qualifying managed fund, the Greener Pastures Kiwifruit Fund, ahead of schedule. And with the Government’s announcement that AIP visa holders can now purchase or build a single home valued above NZ $5 million, we’re seeing a clear shift in investor sentiment. Increasingly, clients are looking for what we call “lifestyle-plus” - the opportunity to combine investment with genuine presence and connection in New Zealand. It’s a positive evolution, creating deeper, more enduring ties between AIP investors and the communities they choose to call home.

How would you describe the mood among your clients right now? Are they ready to move, or mostly still exploring their options?

The recent relaxations to the AIP visa and property rules have certainly prompted more investors to take action. That said, relocation at this level is never a quick decision and for high-net-worth individuals, it’s a deeply considered process. Many are still in the ‘exploration’ phase, evaluating timing, investment structures, and family logistics before committing.

Even once someone feels an emotional connection to New Zealand, there’s a practical journey that follows.  For example, they may need to understand schooling and school term alignment, find a region that works best for their lifestyle, and manage property transitions in their home country. Every client moves at their own pace, and our role at Greener Pastures New Zealand is to guide and support them through each of these decisions, ensuring the move feels seamless and deeply aligned with their long-term lifestyle goals.

Where is the strongest interest coming from right now?

The United States has historically been one of New Zealand’s largest sources of investor visa applicants, and that trend continues. Since the relaxation of the AIP visa policy came into effect on 1 April, we’ve seen particularly strong interest from U.S. investors. At the same time, there’s been a noticeable rise in enquiries from China, Hong Kong, and, to a lesser extent, Singapore and other parts of Asia. It’s a positive sign of growing diversification across markets, with global investors increasingly viewing New Zealand as a stable and desirable long-term destination.

Looking ahead, how do you see these changes shaping the flow of high-net-worth investors into New Zealand?

The easing of the AIP visa and property rules is expected to accelerate investor inflows and broaden the diversity of applicants. Increasingly, we’re seeing high-net-worth individuals who are motivated by both lifestyle and investment, not just those seeking purely financial returns.

We also anticipate that these changes will encourage AIP investors to build deeper, more enduring connections with New Zealand. While the minimum stay requirement is only 21 days per year, the ability to own or build a home valued above NZ $5 million means many will spend more time here, fostering stronger relationships, networks, and contributions to local communities and the wider economy.

Of course, New Zealand’s appeal will continue to be influenced by global mobility trends, economic conditions, and evolving regulatory or tax settings. But from our perspective at Greener Pastures New Zealand, the clients we’re engaging with are deeply motivated and genuinely excited to invest in, and be part of, New Zealand’s future. It’s a privilege to walk alongside them as they make that transition.