Number of house sales in March highest since 2021 – prices stable

House prices remain stable despite sales being recorded at levels not seen since 2021, according to realestate.co.nz’s latest property report released today.

In the report, total new listings across the country were up 7.3% to 9139 in the year to April 2026.

Average asking prices were up 2.2% year-on-year to $869,023, and the total housing stock was 37,334, up 3.9% year-on-year.

At the same time, data from REINZ showed 7853 properties were sold during March – the highest since November 2021 when 8370 properties were sold.

Realestate.co.nz chief executive officer Sarah Wood said the data showed movement in the market, despite global uncertainty and economic pressures.

“We're seeing more people browsing for property on our site, both locally and from overseas, and with total inquiries up by 14% year-on-year, there's clear intent from buyers."

The time taking to sell was also below the average of 26 weeks – sitting at 22 weeks in April.

In Auckland, the number of new listings was up 23.1% in Auckland year-on-year, and recorded at 3422 compared to 2779 this time last year.

Bay of Plenty and Otago also had a double-digit growth in new listings, up 10.6% and 10.3% respectively.

Realestate.co.nz said the increase in activity came at a time of stable prices.

“Despite seeing an increase in April, the national average asking price has hovered between $840,000 and $890,000 for more than three years showing levels of stability we have not seen in recent history.”

Despite the stable prices, some regions did record all-time average asking price highs, such as Canterbury ($735,798), Southland ($617,879), and the West Coast ($560,725).

These regions were up 3.8%, 17.9%, and 22.1% respectively year-on-year.

In the main centres, Auckland’s asking price was up 0.8% to $1,034,504, and Wellington was down 0.7% to $812,701

Marlborough was the only region to report a double-digit decline in April 2026 – down 10.1% to $707,013.

Wood said this decline created a rare window of opportunity for smart buyers and sellers.

“The market is finding its footing again and it’s come with a more measured dynamic between buyers and sellers.

"There isn’t the urgency of past peaks, this is more sustainable. Buyers have choice, sellers have confidence and the level of stability the property market is offering is enabling people to make considered decisions. Right now, the conditions are there for those ready to act."