Rising fuel costs driving Kiwi home buyers closer to city centres

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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 recent Trade Me Property survey shows rising fuel costs are changing how Kiwis buy homes. Buyers are now prioritising location to reduce their commute, focusing on properties closer to city centres and their jobs.

Key search criteria now include:

- Proximity to work

- Walkability to shops and amenities

- Easy access to public transport

This marks a shift away from "driving until you qualify," though 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.

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Trade Me Property team Trade Me Property team