The latest data released by the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand shows clear signs of momentum building across the country. After a long period of uncertainty, buyers are returning, sellers are more optimistic, and activity is picking up in many regions.
National sales increased by 6.4 percent year-on-year to 7,505, and sales outside Auckland rose by 9.2 percent to 5,200. Eleven out of sixteen regions recorded more sales than the same time last year, which tells us that confidence is strengthening, and buyer behaviour is shifting. Even after adjusting for seasonal effects, October performed better than expected, helped by the usual spring uplift and improving sentiment.
The national median ‘days to sell’ is sitting at 41 days, a slight improvement on last year, and prices remain steady overall. While national price movement is modest, premium and regional markets such as Queenstown Lakes and the West Coast are showing strong upward energy, suggesting demand is alive and well at both entry level and higher price brackets.
Wellington Region Market View
The Wellington market continues to move steadily. The median price for October came in at $767,500, which is 3.5 percent lower than last year, and the median days to sell is currently 46 days. Our salespeople are reporting strong open home attendance and healthy interest from serious buyers, particularly for well-presented homes priced realistically.
Auctions have remained steady, although many buyers are choosing to negotiate through conditional offers. First-home buyers continue to lead activity in the region, helped by softer lending conditions and positive conversations around future interest rate reductions. Owner-occupiers are also active, although they are more selective than in previous cycles.
Overall, confidence is returning, and the market feels genuinely active rather than slow or stalled.
Lower Hutt Market Pulse
Lower Hutt continues to be one of the most resilient and active parts of the Wellington region, appealing to first-home buyers, families seeking more space and value, and investors making carefully considered moves.
In October 2025, the median sale price in Lower Hutt reached $689,000 and a total of 130 homes sold across the city. The median days to sell was 43 days, which reflects a balanced and healthy pace. It is fast enough to show good buyer engagement but not so rushed that the market feels overheated. Buyers have choice, and sellers still have every opportunity to achieve strong results when they align price and presentation with current demand.
The median price sitting below $700,000 is a key draw-in for buyers who want a realistic entry point into the market. Homes that are well presented and move-in ready are performing strongly and often attracting multiple interested parties. Properties that require renovation or that are priced above buyer expectations are taking longer to sell.
What we are seeing on the ground in Lower Hutt:
- First-home buyers are driving enquiry and competition across entry-level suburbs.
- Homes with good presentation, modern upgrades and realistic pricing are performing best.
- Lifestyle advantages such as schooling, transport links and suburban amenities remain important factors in buyer decisions.
- More stock is coming to market which is creating choice and encouraging healthy competition.
If you are selling
Focus on presentation, clarity around pricing and strong marketing. Buyers want simplicity and quality. A home that looks ready to move into tomorrow is far more likely to stand out.
If you are buying
This is a great moment to be active. Prices are stabilised, competition is reasonable, and there is more time to make smart decisions. Being prepared with finance and a clear idea of what you want will put you in a strong position.
Looking ahead
As we move further into summer, market confidence is expected to continue building. We are likely to see more listings, strong enquiry from first-home buyers and healthy competition for well-presented homes. This is shaping up to be an active season without the pressure and urgency of previous boom periods.
The current environment is best described as steady, confident and strategic. It is a market where good decisions matter, and the right opportunities are available for both buyers and sellers.
If you are thinking about buying or selling, or would like an updated value assessment on your property, now is an ideal time to start planning.
📩 Reach out for a complimentary, no-obligation appraisal or personalised market update.
