Market Update September 2026

As we head into spring, the property market is still very much in favour of buyers, but we are starting to see a few positive signs that confidence is coming back.

There is still plenty of choice out there, buyers are taking their time and nobody is expecting another property boom anytime soon. But people do seem to be feeling a little more comfortable about making decisions again, and that is a good thing.

Nationally, most forecasts are suggesting property values will stay fairly steady through the rest of 2026, with some modest growth expected next year.

Here in Kerikeri, things have actually been pretty steady.

To the end of August, there have been 162 residential sales, which is almost exactly the same as this time last year. We have also seen 272 new listings come onto the market, so buyers certainly haven’t been short of options.

The busiest part of the market continues to be under $1 million, with around 63% of house sales this year falling into that price range.

One thing we have noticed recently is a bit more interest in sections.

Land sales have been fairly quiet for a long time, but we are now seeing builders starting to secure sections and look at building new homes for buyers. It is still early days, but it is encouraging to see some life returning to that part of the market.

At REAL, we have also had a strong year so far. Our team has been involved in around one-third of all new Kerikeri listings this year, and spring has started well with a good number of new properties coming to market.

So what does all this mean?

For buyers, there is still plenty of choice and time to make good decisions. Finance is available, first-home buyers are active and there are some very good opportunities out there if you are ready to move.

For sellers, the market is rewarding properties that are well presented, well priced and marketed properly. Buyers are doing their homework, and if they feel a property is overpriced, they are usually happy to move on to the next one.

That is why getting the basics right from day one is so important.

Our team has more than 100 years of combined real estate experience, but just as importantly, we work together. We share buyer feedback, information and opportunities across the whole team rather than working in isolation.

In a market like this, that matters.

If you are thinking about selling, buying, or just want a straight conversation about what is happening in Kerikeri, feel free to give us a call or drop in for a coffee.

A team you know, experience you trust.