District enjoys buyer-friendly phase

The Kaipara property market is showing signs of stability after a lift in activity through 2025, with Mangawhai continuing to lead the district in both prices and sales volume.

According to Professionals real estate agent Shar Schultz, who is based in Maungaturoto, house sales across Kaipara rose by about 14 per cent year-on-year, reaching a multi-year high in the 12 months to September 2025. While price growth has been modest, the increase in sales points to renewed confidence after a period of fluctuation.

Average house values across the district rose by around 1.5 per cent over the past year, sitting at around $846,043 by mid-2025. Schultz said that although growth has slowed compared to previous cycles, recent quarterly gains suggest a steady market with underlying resilience.

Residential properties remain the strongest performers, particularly three-bedroom homes with one to two bathrooms on sections of around 1000 square metres within townships. Demand is also increasing for smaller lifestyle blocks of one to two hectares that include a home and sheds. In contrast, larger rural blocks of 10 hectares or more are taking longer to sell, as are vacant sections unless they are priced competitively.

Shultz says prices across the district have largely flattened and are holding steady, reflecting a more balanced market. While performance varies between areas, she expects prices to remain relatively stable over the next 12 months as sales activity continues to lift.

First-home buyers remain active, particularly in the $500,000 to $600,000 range, alongside purchasers relocating from Auckland. On the selling side, many vendors are long-term owners downsizing into lower-maintenance homes or moving closer to medical services and retirement facilities. Families looking to upsize are also contributing to market activity.

“With a wide range of listings available, current conditions are slightly favouring buyers, who have more choice and are able to find good value,” Shultz says.

“Sellers who price realistically are achieving quicker sales and are well placed when purchasing their next property.

“Well-priced rural properties are typically selling within three to six months, while those priced higher may remain on the market for six to 12 months.

“Most buyers are locals, alongside people moving from Auckland, with several Kaipara suburbs showing steady growth.”

Homes that are well presented and require minimal immediate work are attracting the most interest, particularly those with established gardens and two bathrooms. Buyers are increasingly cautious about flood-prone areas following recent weather events and are placing strong importance on community amenities, school access and overall safety.

Schultz says there has been a noticeable shift in vendor expectations, with many recognising that higher-priced properties are struggling to sell. As a result, pricing is becoming more realistic, improving outcomes for both buyers and sellers. Some vendors with specific financial targets are choosing to wait for conditions to improve.

Infrastructure improvements are also playing a role in attracting buyers from Auckland. The Pūhoi Corridor has already enhanced accessibility, while the planned Northern Corridor is expected to further shorten commute times. Combined with flexible working arrangements, this is encouraging more people to move north while remaining connected to the city, with improved access to Whangārei adding to the appeal.

Meanwhile, the Professionals real estate group has undertaken a brand refresh as it approaches its 50th anniversary. The update reflects a more modern look aimed at attracting new buyers and sellers, supporting member offices and appealing to a younger generation entering the industry.