Relocating to a new country is not a small decision; Ambler Collins aims to provide you with the most up-to-date and reliable information on important aspects
of life in the country your interested in moving to. Please see the menu below for more information on life in New Zealand.
Housing in NZ
Whether you choose to rent or buy a house in NZ you will probably find that your money can go a very long way.
Urban houses still account for 85 percent of house sales in NZ, although inner city and semi-rural living are
becoming increasingly popular options. Housing quality is varied, with the traditional NZ home in the suburbs
consisting of a detached wooden 2 or 3-bedroom house on a ¼ acre section. Now inner city apartments and townhouses
are commonplace in all major cities. Close to 70% of New Zealanders own their own home, one of the highest rates
in the OECD.
Renting:
The high percentage of homeowners in NZ can cause the amount of rental properties available to be limited. Factors such
as proximity shops, schools and transport, as well as the nature of the
neighbourhood, also need to be taken into account.
Prices and quality vary a lot and it is always advisable to visit a property personally before signing a Tenancy
Agreement (also known as a lease). NZ Tenancy services are the legal body that can assist you with any legal problems
or questions.
The majority of rental properties are unfurnished, although normally kitchen and laundry facilities including white ware
are provided. There is a high demand for good quality rentals, and it may take some time to find a suitable property,
when you do, you will usually have to make a quick decision. The current average weekly rental prices in NZ are $310NZD
for a two bedroom and $350NZD for three bedroom houses these vary depending on the city.
Buying a House:
House prices vary greatly according to region, and whether you are looking in urban or rural areas. Within cities
different neighborhoods can vary greatly and it is recommended to find out as much as possible about any area where
you are looking at moving. City averages range from $130,000NZD in Invercargill to $600,000NZD in the central Auckland.
Average area average price in $NZD are $471,502 Auckland, Wellington $381,212, and the New Zealand wide average
$335,285 being.
Every year the local council will provide a ‘ratable valuation’, where equates to what they think a property is worth as
to set the ‘rates’, the annual property tax. Although house prices will depend on market conditions, including interest
rates, most houses will sell for close to their ratable valuation.
Most houses are sold through real estate agents who take a sales commission from the vendor. Property features in major
Newspapers are predominately Wednesday and Saturdays. There are also extensive online listings.
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