Recent figures from realestate.co.nz indicate that property listings remain elevated and prices are holding steady, giving Kiwis a greater flexibility and opportunity to buy or sell a property.
Realestate.co.nz chief executive Sarah Wood noted that despite ongoing global uncertainty, New Zealand’s property market has demonstrated impressive stability.
Even with global economic turmoil, US tariffs, and employment uncertainty, Wood said, “Today’s well-stocked and stable property market offers buyers and sellers time, choice, and flexibility. A fast market is stressful for buyers and sellers; a slower, stable market brings real positives. If you want to have certainty around your buying and selling price, now’s a great time to make your move.”
In April this year, the national average asking price decreased by 1.7% compared to the previous year, reaching $852,364. Despite this slight drop, prices remain firmly within the narrow $850,000 to $890,000 range that has characterised the market over the past two years.
National housing stock rose by 6.2% year-on-year in April 2025.
“There’s plenty of stock available, but we’re not seeing a boom in sales activity to move it through yet,” Wood noted.
Several regions experienced year-on-year increases in housing stock, with Gisborne leading at a 75.0% rise, though actual listings remain relatively low, moving from 82 to 144 properties. Other notable increases were recorded in Central Otago/Lakes District (up 28.2%), West Coast (up 28.0%), Otago (up 22.4%), Central North Island (up 19.6%), Canterbury (up 14.5%), Marlborough (up 11.0%), Wellington (up 10.8%), and Coromandel (up 10.3%).
Wood said the current market environment provides buyers the opportunity to make thoughtful decisions without feeling rushed.
“Visit 50 properties before you buy. You need to know the market, know what’s selling, and know what buyers are paying — and right now, you have the time to do exactly that,” she said.
“This market also allows buyers to negotiate terms, like longer settlement periods, and complete thorough due diligence before making decisions.”
For sellers, competitively priced properties continue to sell, and many will soon transition into buyers themselves.
“If you accept a slightly lower sale price than your original expectations, you’re also better positioned to negotiate sharply when you purchase your next property. It’s a two-sided opportunity.”