Property owners considering a 2026 sale have compelling evidence on their side, according to the latest realestate.co.nz data.

Over the past 10 years the New Zealand property market has navigated a pandemic-fuelled boom then a sharp adjustment while also weathering significant regulatory changes that have impacted borrowing limits and property investing.

Against this backdrop of change, some markets and regions have emerged as clear standouts, recording the strongest property price growth over the past decade. Leading the way is Gisborne with a 145.5% increase in asking price from $284,134 in 2015 to $697,527 in 2025.

Manawatu/Wanganui followed with a 121.5% increase from $274,032 in 2015 to $606,985 in 2025 and Central North Island recorded the third highest increase of 119.2% from $348,659 in 2015 to $764,316 in 2025.

Southland (111.3%), Hawke’s Bay (105.0%), Wairarapa (100.7%) and Coromandel (100.1%) were the four remaining regions that more than doubled their average asking price during the 10-year period.

Of the other major regions and centres, Taranaki was the standout performer with a 99.6% increase in average asking price followed by Central Otago/Lakes District (96%), Waikato (95.9%), Otago (95.3%), Bay of Plenty (86.8%), Marlborough (86.3%) and Northland (85.8%). Wellington’s average asking price increased 73.4% over the decade, followed by Canterbury (53.7%) and Auckland (23.5%).

Raine & Horne New Zealand General Manager James Shepherd said the data reinforced that the Kiwi property market was cyclical and that growth rarely occurred in a straight line over the medium term with external factors regularly causing variations, spikes and adjustments.

“Increases in value usually depend on the nature and quality of individual properties, land size, location, and population changes.

James continued, “While Raine & Horne property professionals provide valuable advice on current market conditions to assist your buying and selling decisions, it is time in the market that often delivers the best results when the time arrives to sell.”

Whether you want to buy, sell or rent a property, don’t hesitate to contact your local Raine & Horne office.