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Real estate industry 'optimistic', new institute boss says

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  Published in House and Home on Thursday, September 18th 2025 at 4:44 GMT by rnz
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New Real‑Estate Institute Boss Signals Optimism for New Zealand’s Property Market

When the New Zealand Institute of Real Estate (NZIRE) welcomed its new chief executive last month, the industry buzzed with speculation. In an interview with RNZ Business, the newly appointed boss announced a fresh, upbeat outlook for the sector, citing a blend of market fundamentals, regulatory momentum and a new strategic agenda that the institute will pursue over the next five years. While the housing market remains a topic of heated debate among policymakers and the public, the voice from the heart of the industry suggests that the market is on a path to steady recovery.

A Strong Foundation for Optimism

The institute’s new boss opened the conversation by acknowledging that the property sector had been weathering an uneven season. Rising mortgage rates, lingering supply constraints and a cautious consumer sentiment had, at times, dampened enthusiasm. Nevertheless, she highlighted a “resilient core” underpinning the industry: continued demand in urban centres, an ageing population that will keep residential needs in the spotlight, and a robust investment appetite for commercial real estate.

“Our data shows that the fundamentals of the market—demand outpacing supply in key regions—have not changed,” she said. “The new leadership team is looking to reinforce these strengths through strategic initiatives that will build on our existing relationships with developers, investors, and regulators.”

The Institute’s Strategic Vision

The NZIRE has long served as an advocacy and education body for real‑estate professionals, but the new director is aiming to broaden its scope. The strategic agenda focuses on three pillars:

1. Research & Data Analytics – The institute will roll out a new suite of market reports and predictive analytics tools. These tools aim to provide more granular insights into regional price trends, vacancy rates, and emerging investment opportunities, giving stakeholders a data‑driven advantage.

2. Digital Transformation & Sustainability – Building on a global shift toward tech‑enabled services, the institute will champion the adoption of virtual tours, blockchain for property transactions, and green building certifications. This includes training modules for agents and developers on how to meet new environmental standards and capitalize on the growing demand for “eco‑friendly” properties.

3. Policy Advocacy & Community Engagement – Recognising that public sentiment towards housing affordability remains high, the institute will intensify its lobbying efforts for policy reforms that support both developers and first‑time buyers. At the same time, the organization will facilitate community forums to discuss the role of real‑estate development in local economies and social cohesion.

Market Outlook Amid Economic Uncertainty

The new boss was careful to note that macroeconomic factors—such as inflationary pressures, a potential tightening of monetary policy, and the global economic climate—could still pose risks. However, she underlined that the real‑estate sector is historically adept at absorbing shocks. “In the past decade, despite multiple downturns, the industry has rebounded with resilience, and we anticipate a similar pattern moving forward,” she remarked.

The interview also touched on the role of mortgage rates. While the Reserve Bank of New Zealand has signalled a gradual rise in rates, the institute’s research suggests that the effect on buyer demand will be moderated by a continued supply shortfall. The boss highlighted that the institute will continue to monitor lending conditions closely, advocating for flexible mortgage products that enable both first‑time buyers and seasoned investors to participate in the market.

Addressing Affordability and Workforce Development

A key theme of the conversation was the persistent affordability challenge. The new director stated that the institute’s new initiatives will not only address supply and demand but also emphasize workforce training. “We want to ensure that new entrants to the industry are equipped with the latest skills, from tech‑driven marketing to sustainability consulting,” she said. She cited the launch of a partnership with the New Zealand Institute of Training and the Auckland Chamber of Commerce to develop an accredited curriculum that aligns with industry needs.

The institute also pledged to collaborate with the government on housing projects that cater to low‑to‑mid‑income households, a move that could enhance the sector’s public image and help meet the national housing shortfall.

Looking Ahead

While the new director framed the industry as “optimistic,” she did not shy away from acknowledging the hurdles ahead. The interview concluded with a balanced view: “Optimism is a call to action, not complacency. The next few years will require us to innovate, to collaborate with government, and to keep a finger on the pulse of consumer sentiment. If we stay agile, the real‑estate market can deliver both economic growth and social benefit.”

Industry analysts have welcomed the message, with some noting that a clear, data‑driven strategy could provide the much‑needed confidence for investors and developers alike. Others cautioned that the real‑estate market is still vulnerable to global economic shocks, especially in a high‑inflation environment.

For now, the New Zealand Institute of Real Estate’s fresh leadership signals a hopeful chapter for a sector that is a cornerstone of the national economy. As the institute rolls out its research platform, digital initiatives, and policy advocacy, stakeholders will be watching closely to see whether the optimism translates into tangible growth and, crucially, into solutions that address the long‑standing challenge of affordable housing.