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New Zealand Opens Luxury Home Market to Golden Visa Holders
The Straits Times
|September 02, 2025
New Zealand will loosen its ban on foreigners buying houses, opening the door for wealthy investors to purchase luxury properties as part of a push to revive its sluggish economy.
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WELLINGTON -
The coalition government on Sept 1 said it will allow holders of so-called golden visas to buy houses worth at least NZ$5 million (S$3.8 million), carving out an exemption to restrictions that have largely kept overseas buyers out of the market since 2018.
The change will not take effect until the end of 2025, when reforms to the Overseas Investment Act are passed into law.
"Globally, New Zealand has a deserved reputation as a great place to live, and we want to grow our economy," Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said in a statement. "By opening our door just a little to allow significant investors to own a home, we will help attract more of those who want to contribute to the community and country."
This story is from the September 02, 2025 edition of The Straits Times.
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