The rise (and rise) of lifestyle properties - what’s driving demand, and is it in your home-ownership future?

The quarter acre dream - it’s a nostalgic slice of New Zealand’s housing history.

But as house prices grew and busier lives meant less time to tend to large sections, property sizes shrunk, particularly for those in metropolitan centres. The new dream became to simply own a home.

But around 10 to 15 years ago, a new trend began to emerge. It seemed more people decided to seek a quieter pace of life, after realising they could ‘have their cake’ (be close to a range of modern-day conveniences, services and amenities) and ‘eat it too’ (enjoy space and tranquility, as well as a place to call their own). 

So what has been the catalyst for this change, and the upswing in demand for lifestyle properties? The reasons are numerous, says Camron Meade, PGG Wrightson Real Estate sales manager for the Central North Island.

“In general terms, it seems to be about escaping the ‘rat race’ to create a more meaningful life for individuals and their families. Larger land parcels offer a sense of separation from neighbours and there is an abundance of flexibility that comes with lifestyle blocks - from small-scale farming to equestrian activities or to operate a home business.”

Location is key, with most buyers prioritising being within an hour of major cities, along with homes that have good internet connectivity and energy-efficient features. And there is also a lot of value placed on a property’s outlook - including views, natural surroundings and recreational opportunities. 

“The proximity to urban amenities is definitely a big one, especially things like schooling, sporting facilities, hospitals and airports,” adds Camron 

“But there does seem to be this driving factor when it comes to child development and people wanting to be able to instill what some may consider ‘old-fashioned’ Kiwi pastimes - like playing outside and building treehuts etc.”

With communication and accessibility that used to be reserved for the cities now available in more remote locations, technology has certainly contributed to this shift. And Covid may have played a part in this too, with remote working the new norm, rather than being few and far between, notes Camron.

“Working conditions now allow for most employees to operate remotely for at least two to three days a week. And as the value of city properties continue to increase, I feel as though more individuals and families will break with urban ties and look towards all the features of rural living.”

This city to lifestyle trend is also something Peter Newbold, General Manager of PGG Wrightson Real Estate, has observed right across the regions of New Zealand.

“Lifestyle communities are now able offer property owners the space to create their own ‘slice of paradise’, while also being close to the local coffee shop, and with good schools nearby.

“People are tired of the busyness of the big cities and all the things that go with that - like time poor and the cost of living. They’ve realised they can cash up, get a lifestyle block and be in a better position.”

And for those in the market, the good news is that there’s a growing number of fantastic rural and semi-rural properties available.

“We’re seeing demand for the outskirts of Christchurch, as well as Rangiora, Timaru and Oamaru in the south. And in the north, it’s those locations in Waikato just outside of Hamilton and Cambridge.

“They are still relatively affordable, which is definitely one of the key drivers. You’ll know your neighbours and become a part of a unique community that really values doing the same things that you are. So it’s really not as daunting as it used to be,” says Peter.

“It’s about returning to those decent parcels of land where there is room to play and move outside in the yard, so the appetite for lifestyle properties is only going to continue to grow.”

Camron notes that the most recent lifestyle market update from REINZ reported a 6.3% increase in lifestyle property sales for the year end October 2024, compared to previous years. Sales volumes have increased in more rural regions such as Bay of Plenty and Hawke's Bay, indicating broader demand across both semi-rural and rural areas, as well as regions close to urban centres, like Auckland, Hamilton and Christchurch.

“For example, this fringe Hamilton lifestyle block brought in a lot of enquiries and strong interest, selling well due to its location - being only moments from a key commercial hub, hospitals and schools. It also offered a large, modern home, with additional sheds/workshop, providing a ‘work from home’ option, as well as something that is becoming harder to find - 10 acres of land,” says Camron.

“Cambridge is also really desirable, and this property catered to so many wishlists. Through exceptional marketing, and offering a wonderful lifestyle for any horse enthusiast, it was snapped up too.”

What’s crucial, says both Camron and Peter, is that buyers ensure they partner with a reputable agent to understand what’s required to upgrade to a lifestyle property. And because PGG Wrightson Real Estate sales consultants live in the community they work in, they have all the local contacts needed.

“A lot of them will even live in a similar kind of property, so whether you need to know the best person for irrigation, mower services or where to buy grazing stock, our team is definitely your ‘one stop shop’. It’s part of their world and they can either answer your questions, or direct you to someone who will know,” says Peter.

Camron’s top tips for buyers looking at lifestyle property in New Zealand:

1. Do your research: Understand what features are most important to you - land size, location, infrastructure, etc.
2. Set a realistic budget: Account for ongoing maintenance costs as lifestyle properties can require more upkeep than standard homes.
3. Engage local experts: It’s important that buyers work with real estate salespeople who specialise in lifestyle properties. Lifestyle properties have many unique aspects and buyers need to be dealing with experienced, knowledgeable professionals, who can guide them accurately.
4. Act quickly: High-quality lifestyle properties often receive strong interest. Be ready to make an offer when the right property comes up.
5. Due diligence: Check zoning regulations, water access, and soil types, especially if you plan to use the property for farming or other specific purposes.
6. Plan for connectivity: Ensure the property has reliable internet and infrastructure to suit your needs, especially if you’ll be working remotely

The more you know, the better prepared you can be to make your next move the best one yet. 

Check out our current lifestyle listings, or get in touch with a local PGG Wrightson Real Estate sales consultant who can provide you with everything you need to know to make your dream property a reality.