Bayleys

Welcome to the August edition of Bayleys' In View

The Tūrangi and Southern Lake Taupō residential median sale price for July 2026 was $405,000, decreased by 25.0% on the $540,000 recorded in July 2025. The market continues to demonstrate measured stability, with 15 total transactions recorded across all categories — a moderation from the 21 sales recorded in the same period last year.

Across all categories the Tūrangi and Southern Lake Taupō region recorded 15 sales in July 2026, comprising 15 residential, 0 rural, and 0 section transactions. Bayleys Tūrangi accounted for 5 of these sales, representing strong continued representation in the local market.

Activity in July was concentrated in the $350-399k band (5 sales), with steady engagement also observed across the upper price ranges. The lifestyle and lakeside segments continued to attract enquiry from out-of-region purchasers seeking a Tūrangi and Southern Lake Taupō base.

The median days on market for residential sales sat at 99 days, increased by 7.6% on the 92-day figure for the same period last year. Buyer enquiry remains steady through the winter months, with well-presented and realistically priced properties continuing to attract committed purchasers.

In this month's edition of Bayleys' In View, we speak with Bayleys Head of Data and Insights Chris Farhi and McGrath's National Head of Research Michelle Ciesielski about The Great Australian Tax Reset and why Australian investors are taking a fresh look at New Zealand real estate.

Just as many Kiwis thought the inflation battle was finally being won, the latest OCR update delivered an unwelcome surprise. Annual inflation has climbed to 4.1%, its highest level in two years, driven largely by rising fuel prices and persistent household costs such as rates, insurance and electricity. Kiwibank Chief Economist Jarrod Kerr believes the Reserve Bank may have acted too soon in lifting the OCR to 2.5%, noting that the economy needs more time to recover, generate growth and absorb spare capacity in the labour market. We examine what the latest OCR decision could mean for New Zealand's property market.

We also sit down with Bayleys National Director of Residential, Johnny Sinclair, to discuss the super-prime property sector, why it continues to outperform, and the growing confidence among luxury buyers.

With increasing interest from overseas purchasers, we also unpack the rules and pathways for foreign buyers looking to purchase property in New Zealand, including residency requirements, Overseas Investment Office consent, and the options available to qualifying migrants and investor visa holders.

Key Numbers

July 2026 Sales Last 3 Months (Southern Lake Taupo)

44

July 2026 Median Sale Price (Southern Lake Taupo)

$405,000

July 2026 Median days to sell (Southern Lake Taupo)

99

Industry Insights

Auction Update

 

July National Auction results are in. Bayleys achieved over $175m in total sales value, with 2,500 online viewers and more than 1,100 attendees, highlighting strong engagement and continued momentum across the auction market this month.

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Insights & Data update

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Chris Farhi covers the latest news from across the sector, including inflation rising to 4.1% over the past 12 months, Auckland Council's upcoming consultation on the revised Plan Change 120 housing intensification rules, and Property of the Week.

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OCR update

 

The latest inflation figures have delivered a setback, with annual inflation rising to 4.1%, its highest level in two years, fuelling renewed debate over the Reserve Bank's OCR decision and what it could mean for NZ's housing market.

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Tax changes

 

The Australian Government has introduced the most significant overhaul of property investment taxation in a generation, with reforms designed to improve housing affordability and encourage the construction of new homes.

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Super prime real estate

 

After several challenging years, the housing market is showing signs of recovery. Sales are improving, confidence is returning, and most forecasters expect house prices to strengthen over the next two years, though plentiful stock continues to temper price growth.

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Overseas buyers

 

New Zealand continues to attract overseas buyers with its stable economy and lifestyle. Despite ownership restrictions, pathways remain available based on residency, visa status and property value, including options for qualifying investors.

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Feature Listing

Motuoapa 1 Parekarangaranga Street  

3  1  1  2
 

Packed with character and endless potential, this classic 1950s lakeside bach is ready for its next chapter. Full of nostalgic charm, it offers the opportunity to restore a much loved holiday retreat or create something new on the generous, flat section.

The original three bedroom home is ideal ...

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Current Listings

Tauranga Taupo
28 Waitetoko Road  

3  1  2  1
 

Positioned on a generous 812sqm section in sought after Waitetoko Road, this contemporary two level home offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and relaxed lakesi...

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Motuoapa
8 Wai Kite Kite Place  

 

Positioned in a peaceful cul-de-sac within sought after Motuoapa, 8 Wai Kite Kite Place presents an outstanding opportunity for investors, land bankers, or those ready to build in one of Lake Taupō’s desirable southern communities.Whether you are looking ...

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Turangi
4 Turanga Place  

 

Seize the opportunity to acquire a well established and highly respected business that has been a trusted name in Tūrangi for nearly two decades. Tūrangi Chainsaws & Mowers Ltd presents an excellent chance to step into a profitable, hands on operation with ...

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Tongariro River
285 Taupahi Road  

1  1  1
 

Tucked away on a generous 941sqm (more or less) section, this character-filled retreat captures the relaxed spirit of Tūrangi living. Perfectly positioned just ...

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Turangi
1/109 Puataata Road  

2  1  1
 

Whether you're stepping onto the property ladder, expanding your investment portfolio, or searching for an easy-care holiday base, this home offers comfort, ...

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Kuratau
2/10 Pikikotuku Place  

3  1  2  1
 

Tucked away in a peaceful Kuratau cul-de-sac, this inviting three bedroom retreat delivers the perfect blend of lifestyle, convenience, and low maintenance living. ...

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Omori
164 Omori Road  

2  1  1  1
 

Positioned in sought after Omori and just a two minute walk from the shores of Lake Taupō, 164 Omori Road presents an exciting opportunity for holiday home buyers and ...

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Motuoapa
3 Marshall Close  

 

Make your move to the sought-after eastern shores of Lake Taupō with this prime north facing section in the heart of Motuoapa. Perfectly positioned next to council reserve land, this flat and sunny site offers an outstanding location to build your dream ...

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Turangi
9 Manawa Street  

 

Interest is building, with units 1, 2, 7, 8, 18, 19, 23 and 24 now sold. These high quality, purpose built 47sqm (more or less) storage units offer something many storage complexes do not — each unit has its own individual title. Whether you need space ...

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Motuoapa
18 Komahimahi Way  

 

Positioned in a sought after Motuoapa setting, this prime flat section presents an outstanding opportunity for investors, land bankers, or those ready to build their dream home and embrace a relaxed lakeside lifestyle.Backing onto a council reserve, the ...

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Motuoapa
91 Kahotea Drive  

4  2  2  2
 

With a motivated vendor ready to meet the market, this is an opportunity you'll want to act on sooner rather than later.If panoramic lake views are what you've been ...

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Motuoapa
73 Kahotea Drive  

 

Tucked away up a private right of way, this generous 1,043sqm (more or less) rear section offers a rare opportunity to secure land in the heart of Motuoapa. Bordering scenic forestry, it enjoys a peaceful natural outlook while still being moments from the ...

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Motuoapa
105 Kahotea Drive  

 

Secure your place in one of Motuoapa's most sought-after locations, where exceptional lifestyle, convenience, and future potential come together.Positioned just moments from State Highway One, this well-proportioned section provides an excellent ...

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Motuoapa
103 Kahotea Drive  

3  1  2  2
 

Nestled in the heart of Motuoapa, this beautifully presented home offers comfort, convenience, and effortless lakeside living, making it an ideal choice for first ...

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Motuoapa
4 Herea Avenue  

2  1  1  1
 

With a motivated vendor and an unbeatable lakeside setting, this is an opportunity you'll want to act on sooner rather than later.Looking for that classic Kiwi bach ...

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