Feature article
Eco-home frenzy: the skyrocketing demand for sustainable living
This beautiful eco-home sparked a bidding frenzy as Kiwi buyers increasingly search for energy-efficient features
24 March 2026
AI summary
Demand for sustainable homes is surging, highlighted by a Three Kings eco-home that sparked a bidding frenzy and sold for $1.561 million. Its features included solar panels, double glazing, and passive design.
This trend is confirmed by Trade Me data showing huge year-on-year search increases for:
- 'off-grid' (+68%)
- 'solar' (+67%)
- 'double glazing' (+60%)
Driven by a desire to lower energy costs, these eco-features appeal to a broad range of Kiwi buyers.
Red bookshelf and fireplace in eco home
A 'green' property in all senses
The architectural designer was careful to reuse as many materials as he could in the renovation to avoid construction waste, reusing the bricks and timber from the original 1940s home in the garden.
Eddie converted the former living room into an attractive, spacious kitchen
The home which had a $1.25 million CV sold at auction for $1.561 million
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