October vs September 2025
What’s happening in the New Zealand property market?
Nationwide Snapshot: Strong Spring Momentum
Median Price (NZ)
$786,000
September: $772.5K, October: $786K
Sales Count (NZ)
7,505
September: 6,501, October: 7,505
Days to Sell (NZ)
41 days
September: 43 days, October: 41 days
October marked a clear spring lift: national median prices rose 1.7% month-on-month while sales surged, and homes sold faster on average. Year-on-year comparisons remain slightly negative for prices but positive for sales, suggesting stronger activity even as price growth remains subdued.
Taranaki in Focus: Prices Rebound, Sales Strengthen
Median Price
$600,000
September: $556,500, October: $600,000
Sales Count
184
September: 150, October: 184
Days to Sell
40 days
September: 45 days, October: 40 days
Taranaki bounced back in October with a solid median price lift to $600,000 and a strong increase in sales. Homes sold slightly faster month-on-month (5 days), though days-to-sell remain the same as last year. The region is showing healthy spring demand, particularly in New Plymouth where open-home attendance and enquiries were notable.
Taranaki Market Highlights
Median price
$600,000 in October. +7.8% MoM, –1.6% YoY.
Sales
184 properties sold. +22.7% MoM, +26.0% YoY.
Days to sell
40 days. 5 Days faster MoM, Same YOY.
Local detail (districts)
New Plymouth led volumes (130 sales) with a median of $679K; South Taranaki and Stratford showed mixed results.
Market Sentiment (REINZ local agent feedback)
- REINZ reports all buyer types were active in Taranaki, led by owner-occupiers.
- Vendors were generally realistic and open homes were well-attended, especially in New Plymouth.
- Agents describe sentiment as cautiously optimistic heading into summer.
- Further interest rate reductions would likely strengthen confidence and activity.
What to Watch in November
Interest-rate signals
Any further OCR easing may prompt more buyers off the fence.
Spring listings
Expect more on offer as sellers target the pre-Christmas window.
Buyer urgency
If demand persists, selling times could tighten and multiple-offer situations may increase.
Tips for Locals
If you’re selling:
- Price competitively and emphasize presentation — well-priced, well-presented homes are getting attention.
If you’re buying:
- Have finance pre-approved and be ready to move quickly on well-priced properties.
- Work closely with agents for early access.
Final Word
October’s REINZ data shows spring momentum returning nationally and a strong month for Taranaki — higher prices in the region and robust sales suggest renewed buyer confidence. While prices remain slightly below year-ago levels nationally, the increase in activity is promising. For sellers, smart pricing and presentation will win; for buyers, being prepared will pay off as the market picks up.
