WATCH: Perspectives Property Report March

Hi, this is Ben Macky, Director of New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty North, covering north of the bridge to the top of the North Island. Welcome to Perspectives for March 2026.

As we move through the first quarter of the year, we are seeing renewed momentum across our wider northern region. From the North Shore and Hibiscus Coast through to Northland, the Bay of Islands, Kaipara and Waiheke Island, enquiry levels are strengthening and buyer confidence is steadily returning.

What is particularly encouraging is not just the lift in activity, but the quality and diversity of buyers re-engaging with the market.

Across the North Shore, median values are currently sitting at $1,141,631, with sales volumes down 8.3% year on year. Days on market have tightened to 57 days, indicating improving decisiveness among purchasers.

On the Hibiscus Coast, we are seeing renewed interest in coastal living within reach of Auckland, with transaction levels increasing and median prices holding at $1,080,000.

Northland and the Bay of Islands continue to attract both domestic and offshore attention. Sales activity has increased by 4.3%, particularly in the premium waterfront and lifestyle categories.

Waiheke Island remains one of New Zealand’s most compelling lifestyle markets. Median values are currently at $950,000, with sales volumes down 1.2% compared to the same time last year. Architecturally significant homes and properties with vineyard or waterfront proximity continue to generate strong engagement.

Taken together, these indicators reflect a market that is stabilising and, in many sectors, gaining momentum.

A meaningful contributor to renewed enquiry has been the introduction of the new Active Investor Visa.

This has reopened dialogue with qualified international buyers who view New Zealand as a stable, transparent and lifestyle led destination for capital.

As a global brand operating across 84 countries and more than 1,100 offices worldwide, New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty is uniquely positioned to facilitate these cross border conversations.

Last financial year, approximately 30 percent of total dollar value transacted across our northern region involved offshore buyers.

This demonstrates both the continued international appeal of New Zealand property and the importance of global connectivity in today’s market.

Our role, as brand representatives, is to provide leadership, clarity and guidance for clients navigating both domestic and international conditions.

Beyond the numbers, we remain deeply connected to the communities we serve.

We are proud sponsors of the Waiheke House Tour and look forward to supporting what has become a true pillar of the Waiheke community.

It is an event that celebrates architecture, design and art at the highest level. We look forward to seeing many of our clients there, experiencing some of the island’s most incredible and exclusive homes, alongside curated art that reflects the creative spirit of the region.

Supporting initiatives such as this aligns closely with the values of the New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty brand, considered living, cultural engagement and a strong sense of place.

While the market remains considered and discerning, the overarching theme for March 2026 is renewed confidence.

Across the North Shore, Hibiscus Coast, Northland, the Bay of Islands, Kaipara and Waiheke Island, we are seeing greater engagement, improving transaction levels and meaningful international interest.

As always, New Zealand Sotheby’s International Realty remains committed to providing informed leadership, strategic insight and global reach for those seeking to buy or sell exceptional property.

Thank you for joining us for Perspectives.