16/09/2026
The Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ) has released its August data, showing a housing market that continues to perform at different speeds across the country. Nationally, 5,430 properties were sold during the month, down 13.0% year-on-year, while the median sale price decreased 1.3% to $750,000.
Properties took a median of 51 days to sell, reflecting a more considered pace of activity.
Across our Central North Island markets, results were mixed. Rotorua recorded a 6.9% annual increase in its median price to $620,000, while Taupō remained largely steady at $737,000. South Wairarapa also performed strongly, with its median price increasing 11.4% year-on-year, while Hawke’s Bay and the Manawatū-Whanganui region recorded softer annual median prices.
Buyer sentiment remains measured, with interest rates, job security and the upcoming general election continuing to influence decision-making. With available stock remaining elevated, buyers continue to have choice, making realistic pricing and strong presentation increasingly important.
