New Zealand is allowing golden visa holders to buy high-value homes starting in late 2025, reversing part of the 2018 foreign buyer ban. This change aims to boost demand for property and cross-border planning services, creating opportunities for firms with pre-departure property advisory support.

The government has made an exemption for New Zealand residence visa holders to purchase one qualifying home worth NZ$5m or more. This move attracts high-net-worth capital while maintaining most of the foreign buyer ban to stimulate the property market and ensure housing stock availability.

New Zealand’s appeal to affluent families is growing, with 6% of HNW population being expats. Adding property ownership as an incentive enhances the country’s allure as a stable investment destination. Globally, over a fifth of HNW offshore wealth is allocated to real estate, driving demand for overseas property advice.

Visa guidance alone may not drive momentum; HNW investors seek integrated services like immigration advice, property sourcing, ownership structuring, and asset management. Firms providing a comprehensive proposition are best positioned to build lasting relationships and secure multi-asset mandates in New Zealand.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: New Zealand reverses foreign buyer ban to attract HNW wealth