Ivy Bai Real Estate Advisor at James Law

26/04/2026

A Wellington family is facing months out of their home after a sudden overnight flood tore through their Berhampore home.

25/04/2026

It looks like Greymouth’s housing market has doubled in value and is still growing strong, bringing in new residents and making the community more diverse — a quiet but clear transformation for this coastal town.

Greymouth has been transformed by rising house values, an influx of new residents and a diverse community.

24/04/2026

It looks like many older New Zealanders are worried about retirement housing, but relying on government support isn’t about rewarding past tax payments—it’s about fairness for those who, for health or family reasons, never had the chance to earn taxable income.

24/04/2026

It looks like first-time developers are learning the hard way that building on brownfields in Auckland’s top suburbs is not for the fainthearted — the complexity of inner-city regeneration demands more patience, resources, and grit than many expect.

“Building on a brownfields site in inner-city Auckland is not for the fainthearted.”

23/04/2026

It looks like inflation pressures are deepening, with fuel costs driving spending shifts and squeezing households—while the Reserve Bank now faces a tough call on whether to act before the full impact of global supply shocks hits this summer.

23/04/2026

It looks like Te Reiputa’s long-term leases and affordable rents are resonating strongly with Aucklanders, as over half its units are already leased ahead of opening—proof that stability and thoughtful design matter more than pools or gyms.

A four-piece band has already formed at the pavilion. No swimming pool or gym is offered.

22/04/2026

It looks like Kiwibank has joined other banks in raising mortgage rates, with some terms up by 20 basis points, while also increasing term deposit rates—though their economists still urge caution, warning that premature OCR hikes could risk a recession.

Kiwibank is the latest big lender to lift its home loan rates.

20/04/2026

It looks like the new Regulatory Standards Board, established under the 2025 Act, is a thoughtful step to reinforce property rights across New Zealand, and with Minister Seymour’s support, it should bring greater clarity and confidence to homeowners and investors alike.

Regulation Minister David Seymour welcomes the appointment of the Regulatory Standards Board (the Board), established by the Regulatory Standard Act 2025 (the Act).

19/04/2026

It looks like many retirees in New Zealand see downsizing as a key part of their plan, but the average windfall only covers about 3.3 years of living costs—and that’s before you factor in moving expenses, limited inventory, and emotional challenges.

18/04/2026

It looks like even with the looming fuel storm making it a tough time to sell, some determined sellers in New Zealand are still moving forward, hoping for the best despite the market headwinds.

Now is a terrible time to sell a house but determined sellers are pushing through the storm and hoping for the best.