September vs August 2025:
What's happening in the property market?
Nationwide Snapshot: Faster Sales, Subtle Price Lift
Median Price (NZ)
$770,000
August: $761K, September: $770K
Sales Count (NZ)
6,346
August: 5,866, September: 6,346
Days to Sell (NZ)
43 days
August: 48, September: 43
Nationally, September saw momentum build — prices rose 1.3% month-on-month to a median of $770,000, though they remain 1.5% below last year. Sales volumes lifted again, with 6,346 transactions recorded — up 2.5% from August and 3.1% year-on-year. Homes are also selling faster, with the national median time to sell down to 43 days.
Taranaki in Focus: Prices Slide, Sales Hold Steady
Median Price
$556,500
August: $610K, September: $556,500
Sales Count
149
August: 153, September: 149
Days to Sell
45 days
August: 50, September: 45
Taranaki’s median price dropped to $556,500 in September — an 8.8% month-on-month fall and 9.1% below last year. Sales edged down slightly to 149, while year-on-year volumes remain up 11.2%. Homes sold more quickly, taking a median of 45 days to move — five days faster than August, but four days slower than last year. The region’s spring adjustment is clearly underway, balancing softer pricing with steady buyer activity.
Taranaki Market Highlights
Prices fall
Median down 8.8% MoM and 9.1% YoY.
Sales stable
149 homes sold — down 2.6% MoM, up 11.2% YoY.
Selling faster
45 days to sell — 5 days quicker MoM, 4 days longer YoY.
Market Sentiment (REINZ local agent feedback)
- Owner-occupiers and first-home buyers continue to lead activity.
- Vendors are realistic and responsive to market feedback, helping well-priced listings move.
- Open-home attendance improved as spring began, and agents note a lift in enquiry levels.
- The recent OCR cut has buoyed sentiment slightly, though buyers remain careful with budgeting and due diligence.
What to Watch in October
OCR impacts
Lower rates could spur more buyer confidence.
Spring listings
More properties expected to hit the market.
Market tempo
If activity holds, selling times could tighten further.
Tips for Locals
If you’re selling:
- Price competitively — realistic pricing is key to attracting offers.
- Emphasize spring appeal: natural light, gardens, and comfort.
If you’re buying:
- Stay finance-ready — good homes are still drawing strong interest.
- Build relationships with local agents for early access to listings.
Final Word
Taranaki’s September data shows a market in motion — prices have softened sharply, but sales remain solid and homes are moving faster. With confidence slowly rebuilding and spring in full swing, the region looks set for a steadier, more active run into summer.
