Market Commentary – April 2025

Auckland Central Property Market Commentary – April 2025
Prepared by Chris Cairns | Cairns & Co – Ray White Auckland Central

There’s been a noticeable shift in Auckland Central over the past few weeks—and the momentum is building. With the Reserve Bank lowering the Official Cash Rate (OCR) to 3.50% in April and mortgage rates showing signs of softening, we’re seeing a clear uplift in buyer activity and enquiry levels—a promising sign for those considering a move.

While broader economic uncertainty remains—especially with global trade tensions still playing out—the local market has responded quickly to improved lending conditions. According to CoreLogic’s Chief Property Economist Kelvin Davidson, inflation is well within target, and the Reserve Bank still has room to lower rates further if needed. That ‘downward bias’ in the interest rate outlook is giving buyers more confidence—and more borrowing power.

A timely window for sellers
We’re now seeing the early signs of a more active winter market, with a sharp increase in buyer enquiry, particularly from first-home buyers and owner-occupiers. Many are re-entering the market with stronger pre-approvals, motivated by both softened rates and a renewed sense of urgency as the City Rail Link nears completion.

Notably, our team has already been capitalising on the Rail Link—even before it opens—leveraging its benefits to justify higher sale prices for well-positioned properties. With interest growing and fewer competing listings on the market right now, conditions are aligning in favour of sellers who want to get a jump on the competition before the traditional spring rush.

What we expect next
While national commentary suggests a ‘subdued upturn’ in sales volumes and prices through 2025, our local market is already accelerating ahead of that curve. Lending data shows a mix of floating and longer fixed-rate loans being taken up, reflecting buyer confidence across different timeframes.

With the next OCR decision due on May 28, and further economic data to follow, we could see even more favourable conditions for buyers—which, in turn, boosts the selling environment. For property owners considering a move, the strategic move would be to act now the supply begins to rise.

In short: buyer confidence is up, enquiry is rising, and conditions are looking good for a smart sale. If you're curious about what your property might be worth in the current market, we’d be happy to provide a no-pressure, up-to-date appraisal CLICK HERE