Rising fuel costs driving Kiwi home buyers closer to city centres

Explore

Rising fuel costs driving Kiwi home buyers closer to city centres

Rising fuel costs are driving Kiwi home buyers to reprioritise their commute, new insights into NZ's property market.

Trade Me Property team
AI

AI summary

A Trade Me Property survey shows rising fuel costs are making Kiwi home buyers prioritise location over property size. Buyers are looking closer to urban centres to reduce their daily commute and save money.

Key search priorities now include:

- Proximity to workplaces

- Walkability to shops and amenities

- Easy access to public transport

This trend marks a shift away from 'driving until you qualify', though access to cycling infrastructure remains a lower priority for most buyers.

A recent survey found around 40% of Kiwi are prioritising workplace proximity and homes closer to their jobs.

The daily commute takes center stage

Cycling remains a niche priority

Around 24% of buyers say good cycleways or cycling infrastructure are a priority due to fuel costs.

Author

Trade Me Property team Trade Me Property team